Colombian captain Maria Alejandra Marin was impressed by her team's all-round game
Bendigo, Victoria, June 3, 2016 - Colombia has put on an impressive display of power volleyball to beat Australia 3-0 (25-17, 25-13, 25-13) on the opening night of the World Grand Prix in Bendigo.
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The packed stadium gave Australia a big welcome, and when local player Karley Hynes, on script, won the opening point of the match the response was euphoric. Madelaynne Montano and Moreno Kenny were proving double trouble for Colombia, and the Colombian block was solid all night.
Australia continued to play strongly for the opening minutes, but Colombia held its nerve and weathered the early storm. Moreno Kenny was proving damaging for Colombia, her power proving hard for the Australians to control. Hynes continued to battle hard, but the Colombian serve was proving too hot for Australia to handle.
The Australian game fell apart in the second set, with Colombia’s power hitters taking control. Colombia was also dominating with its serve, Melissa Rangel serving three consecutive aces to add to the Australian misery. The Colombian block was effective in shutting down Hynes, with Beth Carey turning into the most effective attacker for Australia.
Despite the large crowd trying to will on the home side, Australia continued to struggle against the Colombian power game in the third set.
