Urnaut, Cebulj on fire as Slovenia overcome Turkey in four sets

The victory improved Slovenia's record to 5-1 and came a day after they fell to host Japan in five sets. The defeat was the third straight for Turkey which is now 3-3. Cebulj and Urnaut led a strong Slovenia attack that dominated the first two sets. Gokhan Gokgoz had 15 points for Turkey with in the loss.




The match featured few long rallies, with most points being scored very quickly. The first set was a tight battle as neihter side was able to open a big lead. Cebulj led Slovenia with five points in the opening set. Turkey had seven errors in the first set.




Slovenia maintained control of the second set from start to finish. They led 7-2 at the outset and carried the momentum through the rest of the set. Turkey appeared listless through much of the set but showed energy near the end. Gasparini scored seven points for Slovenia in the second set.




Set three followed the pattern of the first two, with Slovenia establishing control early. Turkey surged late to level at 20-20 and then fought hard to take the set 28-26 with some inspired team.



The final set was a tighter affair with Slovenia pulling away in the last five points to notch the victory after Turkey put up a tough fight.