Sao Bernardo do Campo, Brazil, June 5, 2015 - Brazil beat Australia 3-1 (25-20, 21-25, 25-19, 25-18) in the first World League match between the two sides. Much like in their last week's matches against Italy, the Australians showed promise and resilience winning a set against one of the best teams in the world, but in the end they were no match for the skills and experience of the Brazilian side.
After a promising performance against Italy last week the volleyroos were set on challenging Brazil as well. They played like they had nothing to lose leaving the home side unable to build a convincing lead. For most of the first set Brazil maintained only a two-point advantage, but a bit of magic from Lipe helped them snatch the set, 25-20.
The visitors rebounded quickly and earned an early lead in the second set. They seemed to be in cruise control until great defence and sets from William allowed Brazil to make things even at 21-all. The home side failed to win another point in the set, however, as simple errors from Sergio and Wallace handed the Australians the second set.
The beginning of the third set saw some more back and fourth with neither team able to break away. However, great blocking from Murilo and Riad helped Brazil stop the Australian attack and regain the lead in the match. After that the visitors seemed resigned to their faith as they never challenged Brazil in the fourth set losing it quickly, 25-18. They will be hoping to draw from that inspiring second set during Sunday's rematch, our
"Match of the Week".
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