VNL: Italy thumps Germany for strong start in Quezon City leg

Italy during the VNL Week 2 in Manila. –VOLLEYBALL WORLD

MANILA, Philippines — Italy made a rousing Quezon City leg debut by sweeping Germany, 25-16, 25-21, 25-22, in the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) on Wednesday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Italians hosted a block party, nailing 12 blocks — four rejections each from middle blockers Gianluca Galassi and Simone Anzani — to earn their fourth win in five matches.

Besides their tremendous net defense, Yuri Romano provided the offensive fire power with 13 points built on 10 attacks, two service aces, and a block

“We blocked pretty well. That was important today because Germany spike hard,” said Romano.

Galassi had 11 points, while Anzani and Daniele Lavia added nine markers each.

Although they stood tall in blocking, Romano is putting premium on improving their attacks with three more games left in Week 2.

“Today we do well in all things but we can improve in other things,” he said as Italy barely edged Germany in attacking with a 35-33 difference in spikes.

Italy forced a triple tie at 4-1, joining Tokyo Olympics gold medalist France and  Japan, as United States remained unbeaten in four games.

The Italians take on the Japanese on Friday

Linus Weber carried the cudgels of Germany with 14 points, all coming from attacks. Lukas Maase had seven markers including two blocks.

The Germans, who gave up 24 points off their errors, dropped to a 3-2 record before facing China on Thursday.