Powerhouse Japan recovered from an opening set stumble and thumped China, 19-25, 25-16, 25-23, 25-12, Sunday night to remain unbeaten in the Volleyball Nations League Women’s Leg at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Japanese turned to their fast, aggressive plays in besting their Asian rivals and extended their winning streak to eight games.
The win cemented Japan’s hold of the top spot with 23 points, followed by the United States, which earlier won in four sets against Thailand to improve to 7-1 for 21 points.
Sarina Koga skippered the Japanese crew with 22 points off 17 kills, four blocks and one ace, while Kotona Hayashi chipped in 18 kills for 19 points.
Arisa Inoue also lifted Japan with 15 points built on 12 attacks, two aces and one block.
After a tight third set, Japan took advantage of China’s lackluster plays and cruised to a 13-5 lead to never look back.
China fell to its third defeat against five wins to settle at fourth place with 16 points despite Li Yingying exploding for 27 points on 25 kills and two blocks.