Volleyroos Edged by Italy

A gutsy Australia lost a five-set thriller against powerhouse Italy in their men’s indoor volleyball preliminary round clash at Earl’s Court on Day 8.

The Aussie underdogs, ranked 22 in the world, squandered a 2-0 lead as the number four seeds staged an incredible comeback to snatch the match 3-2 with a 15-13 fifth set decider.

Australia’s Travis Passier, who plays for an Italian club, said Italy’s obvious big game experience was a telling factor.

“Our inexperience and their ability to step for the crucial points was a key difference,” he said.

“We had our chances but they just showed their experience.

“I think we were surprised to find ourselves 2-0 up so we showed we really can match it with these guys.”

Australia must win their last preliminary match on Monday against Poland to have a chance of advancing to the quarter finals.

The Aussies made a sensational start, leading the entire first set before closing out their more fancied opponents 25-21.

They led by as much as 5 (10-5) early in the set before allowing the Italians to level the score, but to their credit Australia did what they struggled to achieve against Bulgaria and held out the late challenge from their experienced line-up.

Australia continued their barnstorming form in the second set, again leading for the entire time and shutting Italy down early to win 25-18.

Italy fought back in the third set, taking the lead for the first time in the match at 7-6 and went point-for-point with Australia for the first half before shutting them out for a 25-21 win.

Italy’s big-game experience showed in the 4th set which they dominated from the outset, winning 25-14 to force the match to a 5th and deciding set.

Australia fought hard in the decider but again Italy overpowered me when it mattered to win 15-13.

So far, Australia has beaten Great Britain 3-0 and lost in three to Argentina and Bulgaria.

Australia only qualified for London 49 days before their opening match against Argentina.

While the 10-member team boasts a great deal of international experience for Australia as well as the majority being contracted to European clubs, they are all on debut on the Olympic stage.