Published on June 24, 2005

[VOLLEYBALL] Head coach Sutichai Chanbunchee concedes the Thai team faces an uphill task against China in today’s opening match of the World Grand Prix Group C first leg, but is confident they won’t go down without a fight.

Sutichai said at a press conference yesterday that the World Grand Prix is one of the most important volleyball competitions for Thailand as they are pitted against the world’s best 11 teams. But it will be tough going as the team had little time to prepare for what is the premier tournament for women.

“We have trained for only two months in preparation for this year’s World Grand Prix. This is because we had to take part in three main local tournaments. Against China tomorrow, I agree that we are underdogs up against powerhouse China. But I hope the team will do their best. If possible, we will try to win a set off them. The chance is very, very slim, but we will try,” he said.

Chinese head coach Chen Zhonghe, though confident his team will top Group C, said he would never underestimate the Thai squad. The players have been told to perform at their best even though they are up against a lower-ranked rival today.

“I think we have a great hopes of winning here, but winning the World Grand Prix is another thing. I hope the players will do their best and try not to make too many mistakes,” Chen said.

Legendary volleyballer Lang Ping, head coach of the United States team, conceded China was the strongest team in Group C. Her team is a newly-formed combination as five main players, including wing spiker Logan Tom have quit to play in beach volleyball.

The USA take on the Netherlands in today’s curtain-raiser of the three-day Group C contest in Ningbo in southeast China at 2pm Bangkok time, while Thailand open their campaign against Athens and World Cup double champions China 6.35pm Bangkok time.

Preechachan Wiriyanupappong

The Nation

Ningbo, China

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