Conceding the first set, the Americans fought back gallantly, with captain Alexandra Klineman, 194cm tall, methodically tearing the German defence with her exceptional spikes. As commandingly leading 18-9, USA continued their aggressive form to win the comfortable set 25-14. Germany dominated the third set initially to lead 14-6, thanks to their excellent teamwork and the improved tactics. USA put their acts together to trail narrowly 14-16, but the Germans still had enough to hold them off. Germany took the set 25-18.
The terrific jump serves by left-hander Denise Hanke got German off to a great start in the fourth set, where the Germans led 4-0 from the start. USA replaced the injured Ashley Engle, who had her left-leg sprained, with Kelly Murphy. Germany grabbed the golden chance to start attacking spectacularly. Racing to a 13-7 lead, the Germans never looked back from then on to stretch it to 23-17. However, USA came close at 21-24 before Karla Borger dropped the ball in the mid court to win the set 25-21 and the match.
Matchprotokol 1
Matchprotokol 2
Quelle: FIVB