Poland bounces back against Italy
PR dla Zagranicy
Nick Hodge
12.09.2014 08:55
Poland edged closer to the third round of the Men's World Volleyball Championship on Thursday, beating Italy 3-1 in Lodz (19-25, 25-18, 25-20, 26-24).
Captain Michal Winiarski celebrates Poland's victory over Italy: PAP/Grzegorz Michalowski
It was a crucial clash for the hosts, having lost their first match of the tournament on Wednesday to fellow Group E side the United States.
“We had problems sleeping after the defeat,” captain Michal Winiarski admitted.
“The match against the United States was turning round in our heads.”
Poland looked nervous in the first set on Thursday, and the Italians managed to take the lead, winning 25-19.
The captain said that questions of style went out the window, as “getting the three points was all that counted.
“It worked out, and that's the most important thing.”
Poland celebrates victory. Photo: PAP/Grzegorz Michalowski
Mariusz Wlazly proved to be Poland's star in attack.
“I'm glad I was able to help the team and that my efficiency in attack translated into points, so we could ultimately enjoy victory,” he said.
But he stressed that “we are always a team, whether we win or lose.”
Italy is now out of the tournament, while Poland is set to face Iran on Saturday evening.
Only three sides in Poland's 8-team Group E will go through to the third round. (nh)
Source: IAR, eurosport, sportowefakty