Thailand captain Pleumjit said that they had the chance to win in the first two sets against China
Bangkok, Thailand, July 10, 2016 - China took fifth place at the 2016 FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix after a 3-0 (25-23, 25-23, 25-12) win over Thailand at Indoor Stadium Huamark on Sunday.
China coach An Jiajie: "For this tournament, I would like to thank Thailand for the impressive hosting the World Grand Prix Finals. Thailand played very well in the first two sets. In the third set, they committed so many errors, which led to our victory. We will have to focus on the Olympic Games after this.”
On Thailand coach Kiattipong Radchatagriengkai’s retirement: "I would like to give my best regards to him. I have always respected him. He did a very good job on the Thai team. He is great coach. If possible, I would like to invite him to visit us in Beijing."
China player Zhang Xiaoya: "We're very happy to win this match. We played our best today. It was tough in the first two sets but we managed to win in straight sets. Thailand have good teamwork and they prepared well for this match. They played actively and enjoyed this match. After this, we will go back to our country and prepare for the Olympic Games."
Thailand coach Kiattipong Radchatagriengkai: “I would like to thank FIVB for giving us an opportunity to host this prestigious tournament. China played very well. They put their best effort. Even without some key players, they played with good spirit. Even though we didn’t win the match, this is a great opportunity for my young players to learn and gain experience.”
Thailand captain Pleumjit Thinkaow: "We have prepared a lot for this match. We have to admit that we aren’t good enough to beat China even though some of their key players were not here. China are consistent, tall and active. We had a chance to close the first two sets but we couldn’t match their strength and height. We are disappointed with the result. However, we’re happy to be on the competition court. We really fought hard.”
Thailand player Wanna Burkaew: “At first, we expected to win this match. However, China prepared well, which led to their victory. We learned from the match. As you know, this is my last match. Thank you for the opportunity to be part of the national team for over a decade. Please continue supporting the Thai national team.”