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Russia make light work of Egypt

Bulgaria's Vladimir Nikolov, right, spikes the ball against Australian blockers David Ferguson, left, and Benjamin Hardy during their match at the FIVB Men's World Cup volleyball tournament in Okayama, Japan, yesterday. PHOTO: AFP

Athens Olympic bronze medalists Russia whipped African champions Egypt in Fukuoka yesterday to remain undefeated with seven straight wins in the men's World Cup volleyball tournament.

The Russians powered their way to a 25-19, 25-18, 25-19 victory.

"We try to win keeping our energy as much as possible, and win a game without losing any sets, so I'm very happy we could do both," said Russian coach Vladimir Alekno after the 62-minute match.

"Although I'm confident of our attacks, it's not easy to keep winning games like this. There were some difficult moments for us and this will help us prepare for the crucial matches coming up," he said.

Russia play Puerto Rico, Bulgaria, world champions Brazil and the US in the last four days of the 12-team round robin competition, in which the top three finishers qualify for next year's Beijing Olympics.

Egyptian coach Ahmed Zakaria said his players were "still young and without experience."

Earlier in the day in Fukuoka, Spain downed Argentina 26-24, 25-22, 25-18.

In Okayama, Bulgaria outgunned Australia 25-17, 25-19, 25-13, while the US breezed past South Korea 25-18, 25-15, 25-18.
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