Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic, September 12, 2011. The last match of the prelims in Karlovy Vary was attended by some 4’600 spectators, including the Czech Head of State, Vaclav Klaus, and CEV President André Meyer. The winners of the 2011 FIVB World League literally outclassed the Czech national team in all fundamentals. The final score sent Russia directly to the quarterfinals, while the home guys will re-start their campaign on Wednesday in the Playoffs by playing the third-ranked team from Pool D in Prague.

The first set was an even game up to the score of 10:11; after that the Russians perfected their blocks and hits from various positions – side, diagonal as well as via their middle blockers. Their blocks in single, double or triple version were quickly moving from one side of the court to the other. The Czechs were searching for efficient means to overcome the tall and always closely positioned Russian blockers and to stop the hammering spikes by Mikhailov, Muserskiy, Volkov and Khtey. During the last two sets David Konečný performed several good hits but all sets were completed in less than 25 minutes.

After the game, the Czech President joined the players on the court and said: “We were cheering you on. Today the opponents were better, we must admit this. We wish you good luck for the next games”.

Ondrej Hudecek, captain of the Czech Republic, stated: “It was unambiguous. The Russian team really outclassed us in all fundamentals. We were able to keep up only in the first part of the first set. Now we must forget this match as ahead of us there is another stage of the tournament. We must get ready for any opponent that will come here from the Pool in Prague”.

Czech coach Jan Svoboda added: “Congrats to the Russians as they played a great game. It is my task now to prepare the team for the Playoffs and do everything we can to claim a spot for the quarterfinals”.

Taras Khtey, Russian captain, stated: “I think the Czech guys wanted to play at their best as the Head of State was watching the game from the stands and they could not cope with this pressure. If you want too much, it often happens that you fail because you are too motivated and nervous”.  

Russia’s head coach Vladimir Alekno: “In my opinion yesterday’s match against a troublesome opponent helped us test various playing options. The team’s mood has also improved. Today I could send anyone to the court and he would play well. It’s time now to move forward. During the two days off we will have a physical preparation and we will be training as well not to get out of our rhythm”.