file photo by Fu Ching Tak

Ningbo, August 26, 2007 - Uprising European powerhouse the Netherlands landed their first title at the FIVB World Grand Prix in style after beating world champions Russia 3-2 here on Sunday for a perfect record in the six-team round-robin Finals.

The orange contingent held off a strong surge from Russia to take the 21-25, 25-18, 25-13, 20-25 and 15-8 victory, becoming the sixth team to win the renowned title. It is also the first trophy for the Dutch women in history at major international competitions.

The Netherlands also took home the top prize of 200,000 US dollars with the Most Valuable Player award going to Manon Flier, who led the Netherlands with 20 points on Sunday.

"It is an achievement for Dutch volleyball, as it is the first time the women’s team won the title of a major tournament in the world," said Netherlands coach Avital Selinger. "I feel proud of the players and happy for the lessons they taught me, because I was not able to do that as a player."

information form FIVB org