Australian beach volleyballers Mariafe del Solar and Nicole Laird suffered a 21-16, 21-11 loss to China today in their final Pool C match played in tough conditions at Copacabana Stadium.

The Australians struggled for momentum against a consistent Chinese side that used the windy and rainy conditions to its advantage.

“It’s definitely a disappointing result for us, we would have wanted to have played our best,” del Solar said.

“They obviously played the conditions a lot better than we did.

“It hurts that we weren’t able to play our best and leave the court with it all out there.”

Despite losses to the United States, Switzerland and China, the Australians won legions of fans with their exuberant play and positive attitudes on and off the court.

Del Solar spoke of the amazing support she’d received from South American fans, particularly from her native Peru.

The pair, from Sydney’s northern beaches, assured fans they’d be back bigger and better for Tokyo in four years time.

“We’re so proud and honoured to have qualified for the Olympics and represent our country,” del Solar said.

“Obviously it never stops there for an athlete – you always want to play your best and go all the way.

“But looking back we have to pinch ourselves, it’s a very cool experience and an awesome opportunity to be here.

“So now we go again for the next four years until that dream of the gold medal comes through.

“Playing with Nikki on that centre court with the amazing crowd, playing in front of family and friends, playing for Australia – it’s a very special feeling.”

Australia are still well and truly alive in the beach volleyball. Teammates Louise Bawden and Taliqua Clancy are in hot form, moving through to the Round of 16 earlier today with a win over the Netherlands.  They'll take to the sand again later this week.

Doug MacDougall
olympics.com.au