Netherlands flatten Russia

OLYMPIC GAMES

Volleyball

The Netherlands, runners up in Barcelona four years ago, signalled their intentions of going one better at these Olympics as they came back from 7-3 down in the first set to overpower Russia 15-9, 15-9, 15-9 in the men's competition.

Seemingly outplayed in the early stages by Russia's well-organised defence, the Dutch gained control of their Group B game with their more subtle play. They surrendered only three points in a run that earned them the first set in 38 minutes, and then a 6-1 lead in the second, and were never in trouble after that. With nine of their 12 squad members over 6ft 6in, the Dutch had the height to block and counter-attack.

It was the Netherlands' second shutout victory, after a 3-0 win over Tunisia.