Aaron Russell recorded 11 kills and served three aces as the U.S. men's national volleyball team came up big in beating visiting Poland, 25-20, 25-19, 25-19, on Saturday in a FIVB Volleyball Nations League contest at Sears Center in Hoffman Estates, Ill.
Matthew Anderson added 12 points as the Americans (9-2, 26 points) moved into sole possession of second place in the 16-team league, two points behind leader France (9-2, 28) and a point ahead of Russia (8-3, 25).
Poland (8-3, 23) entered the weekend as the overall leader and is now in a fourth-place tie with Brazil. Serbia beat Iran in five sets earlier in the day to remain in contention but will need help as Italy is in sixth, four points ahead.
There are four matches remaining to play, with the U.S. meeting Iran at 2:30 p.m. Sunday. The Americans conclude the preliminary round in Modena, Italy next weekend, meeting France on Friday morning. The U.S. will also meet Russia and host Italy.
France hosts the Final Round in Lille beginning July 4.
Without the services of Thomas Jaeschke, who suffered a knee injury in the win over Serba on Friday night, several other Americans stepped up, including Torey Defalco, who took Jaeschke's spot in the lineup. He and Maxwell Holt each contributed nine points.
“We had a lot of great contributions, different guys stepped up and that makes it difficult for the opposition," said US captain David Smith. “It was a great atmosphere. It was loud and we are so appreciative."
Micah Christenson, who delivered the decisive point from the service line in the first set, helped the U.S. win the service battle, 9-1.
“Thomas Jaeschke had a real significant knee injury," American coach John Speraw said. "He’s going to be out for quite a while. We’re heartbroken for him and I know he’s been playing great volleyball and has become such a great leader in our team. It hurts us. But I’m really pleased with the way the guys have stepped up when he’s been out."