Japan spikers secure podium finish

NAGOYA (Kyodo) Japan suffered its first defeat at the men's World Grand Champions Cup on Sunday, losing to Cuba in straight sets.

The loss came after Poland's win over Iran earlier in the day guaranteed that Japan will finish the tournament in the top three for its first men's volleyball medal in a major international competition since 1977.

Cuba downed Japan 25-19, 25-20, 25-22 at Nippongaishi Hall to join the host with a 3-1 win-loss record.

"We were beaten by Cuba's height and power. It was a complete shutout, the same as the games in the World League," said Japan coach Tatsuya Ueta.

But Ueta is thrilled that Japan will finish on the podium for the first time since it finished second to the former Soviet Union at the 1977 World Cup in Tokyo.

"We still have a long way to the top but I feel we are getting closer. I want to congratulate my players for winning a medal in such a great competition with all the champions of the continents," he said.