Japan looked sharp from the outset of the match Sunday in contrast to
their sluggish beginning the previous day. And, while both sides were
equally persistent going for the ball, Japan showed a steadiness when
serving that had been missing the day before.
Southpaw ace Takahiro Yamamoto was especially sharp with his serving and
helped Japan pull away at the end 25-23 after a seesaw set.
The tightly-contested match continued into the second set with Roberto
Reis and Jorge Alves leading the way with their blistering spikes. Japanese
setter Daisuke Usami helped get the momentum turned around in the middle of
the set with some blocks and sparkling play at the net. Portugal was unable
to respond as Japan pulled away 25-18.
With two sets in hand, Japan took control at the net with blocks and
Yamamoto's spikes to forge and early lead in the third set. Portugal,
meanwhile, appeared to lose their concentration as errors began to plague
their serving and spiking. From the middle of the set, Japan ran off nine
straight points on their way to a 25-12 win.
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