Chinese men's volleyball closer to Athens

Chinese men's volleyball team beat Iran 3-1 in qualifiers for Athens Olympic Games held in Tokyo, Japan on May 25. Till now China has had three wins in a row.

The scores of the four sets are 25-16, 25-23, 31-33 and 25-22.

The Chinese team, seeking for their first Olympic qualifying slot in 20 years, started strong in the match, winning the first two sets 25-16, 25-22 thanks to strong attacking and tight blocking.

But they lost concentration in the third set after leading 23-17 and the Iranian team, which trounced South Korea 3-0 on Monday,took advantage to launch a strong comeback.

The Chinese team squandered eight match points before losing the set 31-33.

In the fourth set, the Chinese team held their nerve to wrap upthe match 25-22.

"We lost concentration in the third set. We should have concluded the match 3-0," said Chinese head coach Di An'he. "Yes we have won three matches, but the next matches will be much tougher for us."

China will play France on Wednesday and then meet Canada, Australia and Algeria later this week.

France now top the standings after beating South Korea 3-0 on Tuesday. The French team have not dropped a single set so far in the tournament.

Only the winners and the top ranked Asian team of the tournament qualify for the 2004 Athens Olympic Games.

China lost to Iran in Busan Asian Games. Iranian team members are good jumpers with excellent individual ability but rough tactic and technique. With new Korean coach, the team has improved in style.

China will play against the strongest rival France tomorrow.