Olympic volleyball: Russia beats Britain

London - Russia’s women’s volleyball team beat Britain in straight sets in their opening Olympic group stage match here Saturday.

Russia prevailed 25-19, 25-10, 25-16 against Britain, who were playing in their first-ever Olympics.

“I have won three silver medals but I would like to add a gold,” Russia’s outside hitter Evgenia Estes said after the win.

“I expect our toughest opponents will be the US followed by Brazil.”

Russia’s coach Sergei Ovchinnikov had dubbed the British team “dark horses” before the game because they had not taken part in major championships.

Russia faces the Dominican Republic in the next game of the group stage Monday, while Britain takes on Algeria the same day.