Despite unexpected troubles in the opening game, the Chinese women's volleyball team beat Poland 3-0 to claim its second straight victory at the Montreux Masters in Switzerland.

With smashes from Zhang Yuehong and errors made by their rivals, the Chinese built an early 6-4 lead. However, Poland, considered doomed to failure in the group which also includes Turkey and favourites Cuba, reacted to the neglect in their style, with soaring morale in their offensive play.

Thanks to outstanding services in the game, Poland succeeded in keeping neck and neck with the Olympic champions until 23-23 before Xue Ming’s fast break and a Polish out-of-line smash helped China clinch the game.

Poland failed to ride a wave of emotion in the second game, while resurgent Chinese showed their overall ability for attacks and blocks eased to reap a 25-13 lead before the third game.

Unrivaled Chinese were irresistible in the final game, taking advantages from services and net plays and a 25-12 comfortable win meant China wrapped up its second victory at the tournament.

With two wins, China booked a berth in the semifinals. They will play arch rival of the group, Cuba, on Friday.

The top two teams of each group will qualify for semis.

(CRI June 8, 2007)