News
GB Women stun Algeria
15th August 2012
TEAM GB WOMEN STUN ALGERIA TO RECORD HISTORIC OLYMPIC VICTORY
Team GB’s women’s indoor volleyball team produced a superb display to beat Algeria and record their maiden Olympic victory in a five set thriller at Earls Court last night.
The home side came from behind to record a 22-25 25-19 23-25 25-19 15-8 victory, and stun the African champions who are ranked number 16 in the world.
Captain Lynne Beattie praised her side’s character and resolve and said she was proud of what her young and inexperienced side are achieving.
“Algeria came out fighting and it wasn’t the start we wanted but we showed a lot of character and resistance to come back and to win in the fifth set is amazing,” she said.
“We’ve been through lots of highs and lows, when London won the bid in 2005 we came together from scratch and we’ve come so far. It’s a dream come true and I’m so proud of every one of the girls.”
Head Coach Audrey Cooper echoed her captain’s sentiments and said she was excited about what her side could achieve.
“We rode the storm and the girls came strong in the end. There’s no point in getting down when you play because you’ll have negative thoughts and it’s about staying calm and keeping your composure under pressure,” she said.
“The girls are learning how to play the important points and remain calm and focused and stick with the game plan. That was a long match and they did a super job. We have huge belief in this team and I have some phenomenal athletes, some who in a couple of years could become world class.”
