Kyoto, Japan, June 25, 2016 – Russia defeated Thailand 3-1 (25-16, 25-22, 22-25, 25-12) in the FIVB World Grand Prix at Shimazu Arena in Kyoto on Saturday.
Ekaterina Kosianenko, captain, Russia: "It was not an easy match today. We really had to work hard as the Thai defence was very good and we need to work on our receiving."
Yury Marichev, Russia, coach: "It was a difficult game as the Thais played fast volleyball with hard spikes so it was hard for our middle blockers to block. We have to improve our serving to make life easier for ourselves as well as many other aspects of our game.
Wilavan Apinyapong, Thailand, captain: "I think it was a good game for us. We were at our best. Russia are a top team so each point we earned was hard work, but the experience we gained today will make us a better team and we’ll try to capitalise on that against Serbia tomorrow."
Danai Sriwacharamaytakul, Thailand, coach: "Russia is a top team with world-class middle blockers, so it was a difficult match for us. They also spike very hard. At first, we couldn’t get any digs or handle their spikes so we need to improve this, but overall it was good experience for the team."