VNL: Felipe Roque powers Brazil sweep of China
Brazil’s Felipe Roque. MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—Brazil, the No.4-ranked team in the world, showed up in expected form against China in the Volleyball Nations League, 25-19, 25-17, 25-17, at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay on Saturday.
Despite feeling “anxious” to start the game, the Brazilians turned to Felipe Roque who delivered with a game-high 17 points.
Article continues after this advertisement“I [felt] different starting and entering the game. I was a little bit nervous and anxious in the beginning of the game but I’m glad I got loose and helped the team,” said Roque.
“I’m happy with my performance.”
Roque was a huge factor in Brazil’s momentous second set where the team really pulled away from lowly China, which is ranked at No. 22.
Article continues after this advertisementThe Brazilians began the second frame with an 8-5 lead before Roque converted on a crosscourt kill, sparking a run that extended Brazil’s advantage to 20-13.
Brazil kept its momentum going en route to an 8-4 record for the second seed behind unbeaten Japan (10-0).
Otávio Henrique Rodrigues Pinto helped the victors’ cause with 11 points.
China, which dropped to a 2-9 record, relied on Bin Wang with 11 markers but to no avail.
