Men's volleyball: Italy beats Russia 3-0 to reach final

Italy beat Russia in straight sets 25-16, 25-17 and 25-16 in Athens on August 27 to reach the final of the Athens Olympic Games men's volleyball tournament.

The Russian men, who claimed the silver medal at Sydney Olympics four years ago, struggled in the first two sets. They found their form in the third, but it was too late.

After rallied ahead 20-15, Italy surged ahead on a 5-1 run and took the opener.

The developments of the following two sets were similar with the first, as the Italians took a early lead and went on to take the set without any tough resistances.

Russia made an early 3-1 lead in the third set, but Italy soon got back with a 4-1 run and continued their winning momentum.

"We played very well tonight," said Alessandro Fei. "Maby that was our best performance in the tournament. Our offense and defense were perfect and we managed to beat Russia."

But the middle blocker of Italy refused to preview the final.

"It is too early to talk about the final. We still don't know who will be our opponent," said Fei.

Italy overwhelmed Russia by their powerful serves as they scored 11 aces during the game while Russians only had four.

Samuele Papi concluded the one hour four minute game with a spike. He scored 14 points for Italy.

Andrea Sartoretti led the game with 20 points, while Luigi Mastrangelo added 9.

Sergey Baranov, who had 12 points, was the only Russian player that scored more than ten. Serguey Tetyukhin contributed four points and listed second.

"We did not play well, not at all," said Konstantin Ushakov of Russia team. "We made many mistakes both on offense and blocking. We did not have a chance to find our rhythm and fight the match. We will do our best to win the bronze medal."

Italy, who defeated Argentina to get the bronze medal at 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, will face the winner between the United States and Brazil in the other semi-final match which will be held later on Friday.