Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan, July 5, 2022 – Japan took their first step toward title defence at the 21st Asian Women’s U20 Volleyball Championship, with a 3-0 win (25-19, 25-22, 25-15) over Chinese Taipei in Pool B of the Preliminary Round at the NU Sports Centre on Tuesday morning.
Japan performed well from the service line, which gave them the luxury to establish their counter-attack comfortably and effectively. They also showed that they have many options to call upon in playing transition. This team played well within their known system, staying composed even in crucial moments.
Chinese Taipei were not too far from the quality that their opponents demonstrated. They passed the ball well even after their opponents’ power serving, and they connected with their offence. Even when the Japanese side lined up pretty good blocks, Chinese Taipei’s hitters managed to unleash from the wing. Opposite Hung Shih-Han led all scorers with 11 points (9 attacks, 1 block, 1 service ace).
The match was marked by numerous marvelously entertaining rallies, displaying nearly parallel skill level on the court. Both teams grew comfortable in making bold decisions, enlisting pipe attacks and combination plays within the rightful context of their situation on court.
In the end, it was a matter of bandwidth. Japan had a full roster to rely on, utilizing fresh legs as they needed, while Chinese Taipei had a nearly bare bench to call upon.
At the opportune moment, the Japanese side subbed in their captain Haruka Kaji, and hitter Anna Uemura, who provided a different mix and pace of offence. As setter, Kaji started to maximise the middle attack, with Tsugumi Fukazawa (10 points) and Rin Honda (9 points) leading the team in scoring. They were able to seize better control of the match, all toward their first victory in the competition.
“It was a really tough match against Chinese Taipei, but we were able to play better when our coach called in our substitute players.
“As captain, I feel that I have the responsibility to play at my best, but also to cheer and inspire my teammates to win against the other teams,” said Kaji.
Japan will next face China on Wednesday, July 6, at 15:00 local time. Chinese Taipei’s next assignment will likewise be against China, on Thursday, July 7, at 15:00 local time.
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