KYOTO, JAPAN: Thailand's national women's volleyball team managed to take a set but could not overcome Olympic-bound Russia which went on to win 3-1 (25-16, 25-22, 22-25, 25-12) in FIVB World Grand Prix action on Saturday.
The defeat followed a 3-0 loss to Japan on Friday night in the opener of the third round of the tournament at Shimazu Arena in Kyoto. Thailand will face Serbia on Sunday at 1pm Thailand time.
The Russians recorded 22 blocks to just six by the Thai side, which also struggled with long serves. Captain Wilavan Apinyapong delivered an inspiring defensive performance but the squad was unable to capitalise on Russian errors. Ajcharaporn Kongyot led the scoring with 13 points and Mallika Kanthong had 10.
The result leaves Thailand 10th in the 12-team Group 1 with a record of 2 wins and 8 losses, ahead of 1-7 Belgium and winless Germany. Regardless of where they finish, Thailand as host will compete in the Group 1 final round that will take place in Bangkok from July 6-10.
The Thai women, ranked 13th in the world, are taking part in the World Grand Prix for the 14th time. Their best result came back in 2012 when they finished fourth. Last year they ended in ninth place.
The 24th edition of the annual tournament is being played by 28 countries from June 3 to July 10.