The Chinese women spikers, seeking their fifth title in the event, made short work of their group arch-rivals, winning 25-22, 25-15, 25-12.

The Chinese women spikers have won the tournament in 1981, 1987, 1995 and 1999.

The Chinese met strong resistance from Canadians in the beginning of the first set because they made many serving errors and were blocked by the tall Canadians. Falling behind 14-13, the Chinese had to field their first line-up composed of five active and former national spikers and fought back to win the set at 25- 22.

The defending champions then turned the game into a demonstration with quick attacks and solid defense and led all the way to seal the match after winning the following two sets.

Hot favorites China will face winless New Zealand in their last game in the Group A round robin.

The 15 participating teams have divided into four groups. The top two teams from each group will advance to the knock-out quarter-finals.

With the victory, China secured their top place of the group with two wins against no loss. Canada and Britain, both with one win and one loss, will vie for another berth of the group Saturday.

In Group A another match, Britain breezed past New Zealand 25- 19, 25-15, 25-21.

(People's Daily 08/25/2001)