Qatar finish fifth at Asian Volleyball Championship

Qatar ended their campaign at the 21st Asian Volleyball Championship in Japan with a creditable fifth place in Chiba, Japan, yesterday. Their impressive run in the tournament leapfrogged them to 20th spot in the latest FIVB World Rankings. In yesterday’s play-off match, Qatar clinched a straight-set 25-21, 25-11, 25-23 win over former champions Australia. At the Chiba Port Arena, Qatar’s Youssef Oughlaf led all scorers on the field, charting 17 points from 15 attacks and 2 blocks. Nikola Vasic added another 15 points in the victory. Qatar had beaten India (3-0) and Bahrain (3-0) while losing against eventual runners-up Japan and bronze winners China prior to yesterday’s play-off round match. Iran succeeded in defending their title yesterday after a thrilling 3-0 (27-25, 25-22, 31-29) final showdown with hosts Japan.