Intro:

Russia's Lokomotiv Novosibirk began their FIVB Men's Club World Championship campaign with a straight-sets victory over the Dominican Republic's La Romana in Betim, Brazil on Wednesday (16th October).

Script:

Russia's Lokomotiv Novosibirk began their Club World Championship campaign with a straight-sets victory over La Romana in Brazil on Wednesday.

Too many errors from La Romana gifted Lokomotiv the first set by 25 points to 20, although the Russian side were far from their best.

And La Romana, of the Dominican Republic, fought hard to match their opponents point for point in the second set, staying in contention with a saved match point at 24-22.

But the Russian's moved through the ears and Lokomotiv quickly took a two-set lead.

As the steadily improving Lokomotiv powered ahead in the third set, La Romana's challenge faded away as they struggled to find their form.

The Russian side closed out their first win of the tournament with a straight-sets victory - 25-20, 25-23, 25-17.

They will will face stiffer competition in their next group game on Thursday. against hosts Sada Cruzeiro.