Thai spikers run through Aussies

The Thais fielded a strong line-up led by Onuma Sittirak, Wilavan Apinyapong and Pleumjit Thinkaow in the curtain-raiser against an Aussie team they had never lost to. The 193cm-Rachel Rourke, MVP in the Polish League last season and set to join five-time Azerbaijan champions Rabita Baku this coming season, spearheaded the Aussies’ efforts.

Thailand, who dropped four places to world No 16 after their dismal 13th in the recent World Grand Prix, were up against an Australia side ranked No 103.

The Thais started well to take a 6-1 lead in the first game, but then suffered a spate of unforced errors to allow Australia back into the lead at 8-7.

Onuma, Thatdao Nuekjang and Wilavan then began to find gaps in the Australian defence and their exceptional spikes powered Thailand home in the opening set 25-17.

The next two sets saw the Thais rest their best players and field youthful replacements including setter Pornpun Kerdprach, Thapapaiphan Chaisri and Sonthaya Kaewbundit. It turned out a wise move as the youngsters outfought the much taller Australians with exceptional skill, capturing the second and decisive sets 25-15 25-17.

“The girls lived up to expectations,” said Thai head coach Kiattipong Radchatagriengkai.

 “Next we take on Taiwan on Friday. It should be a tougher task. We will study their game plan and learn from the mistakes we made against Australia.”