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Wu Penggen of China (front) hits the ball as Florian Gosch of Austria defends during their men's preliminary round beach volleyball match at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games August 10, 2008. |
Chinese men's beach volleyball pair Wu Penggen/Xu Linyin netted their first victory at the Beijing Olympics on Sunday, passing through an Austrian pair 2-0.
The Chinese pair beat Florian Gosch/Alexander Horst 21-16, 21-15.
"In front of so many home fans, we're so happy to score the first victory for the Chinese men's beach volleyball," said Wu after the match.
He said that not only their attacks but also serves and blocks should be attributed to their victory.
As only Chinese men's team to have qualified for the Beijing Olympics, the Chinese pair are considered serious contenders for a medal. They clinched five silver medals and two bronzes on the World Tour.
Xu, named most improved player in 2007 by the FIVB, said their teamwork was essential for victory.
The Chinese pair are to play Estonia's Kristjan Kais/Rivo Vesik on Aug. 12.
(Xinhua News Agency August 10, 2008)