Italy began their World League campaign with victory away to Australia
Adelaide, Australia, May 2015, 2015 - Italy had six players making their international debuts, but they seemed at home as their team proved too strong for Australia in the opening World League clash in Adelaide on Friday.
Australia were hoping that with so many new players Italy might be beatable in the opening World League clash in Adelaide. But with a high error count the Australians could not keep up with their young opponents, eventually losing 3-1 (25-19, 22-25, 25-21, 25-20).
Italy coach Mauro Berruto: I'm very happy about their attitude, they showed a great attitude on the court during good moments and bad.
If we talk about volleyball, there were many ups and downs, so we have to work particularly on some skills. We have to do a lot of things, but of we have the right attitude we can do anything.
Italy captain Dragan Travica: We are happy with our younger players that debuted today, and had a day that they will never forget. But tomorrow will be more important than today.
It was the first match, so there was the emotions that you can work on at practice, so we can do better.
Australia Italian coach Roberto Santilli: It wasn't the perfect game, the first game is always difficult. We expect to play with less mistakes, which is exactly what Italy did. We missed some easy situations which we have to manage, but you can see today the difference between the two teams is not much.
Australia captain Thomas Edgar: I'm happy overall with the team, but a little bit disappointed with my performance. We lost a bit of concentration and fell back a bit, but we fought back and made it hard for the Italians. I think when we're playing our best volleyball we can definitely match it against Italy.