Van Ryk, Gray help power Canada to upset win over No. 6 China at Volleyball Nations League
Pair combine for 48 points, leading Canadians to 3-1 victory for back-to-back wins
Kiera Van Ryk of Surrey, B.C., had a game-high 27 points as Canada defeated China 3-1 in women's Volleyball Nations League on Friday.
"We are showing up with fierce determination and it's fun to be a part of that," said head coach Shannon Winzer. "Tonight, our serving was ruthless, and key to disrupt China's offence. Our middles did a great job of slowing down their attack and our hitters remained aggressive in key moments. I also cannot credit our subs enough for the jobs they did tonight, making an impact each time."
China led 61-58 in attack points, but Canada carried an 8-6 edge in blocking points and 13-6 in serve points. Canada made more errors, however, with 19 to China's 16.
WATCH | Replay of Canada's 3-1 win over China in VNL:
Canadian captain Alexa Gray of Calgary added 21 points. Canada's women are still vying for a place at this summer's Olympic Games in Paris.
Canada opened with a four-set loss to host Brazil on Tuesday night before rebounding with a 3-0 win over the Dominican Republic on Thursday.
"Being able to back up last night's performance with another big showing against another top team is huge," Winzer said.
Canada's next match is Saturday against Thailand.
Canadian roster
- Brie O'Reilly — Langley, B.C.
- Courtney Baker — Bridgewater, N.S.
- Emily Maglio — Coquitlam, B.C.
- Jazmine White — Oshawa, Ont.
- Alicia Ogoms — Winnipeg
- Layne Van Buskirk — Windsor, Ont.
- Alexa Gray (C) — Calgary
- Hilary Johnson — Calgary
- Andrea Mitrovic — Mississauga, Ont.
- Vicky Savard — Jonquière, Que.
- Kiera Van Ryk — Surrey, B.C.
- Shainah Joseph — Ottawa
- Julia Murmann — Toronto
- Kacey Jost — St. Albert, Alta.
