Russia had looked set for a second successive whitewash following their 3-0 win over Great Britain on Saturday, but they were rocked on their heels by a vibrant Dominican side who had the majority of a near-full crowd on their side.
They took the third set in dramatic fashion and had the chance to take the fourth, only for the experience and sheer size of the Russians to hold sway as they won 23-25, 15-25, 26-24, 22-25.
It was the free-flowing and flamboyant style of the Dominicans that had the Earls Court spectators on their feet, with their passing style a stark contrast to the all-out hitting of the Russians.
They still had power of their own, though, with the 26 points of Bethania de la Cruz de Pena outscoring any of the Russia players, but it was the on-court emotion and exuberance of her and her team-mates that helped them garner support.
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