Team GB volleyball girls win first-ever match in Olympic competition

BRITAIN’S volleyball girls burnt the midnight oil as they made history at Earls Court.

Audrey Cooper’s team came back from 1-0 and 2-1 down to see off Algeria 3-2 just before a quarter to one this morning to grab a dramatic first-ever win in Olympic competition.

The result represents a stunning achievement for a federation that has self-funded its journey to London, with some players selling their houses and quitting their jobs to pursue their dream.

The historic point came at 12.37am when Ciara Michel won a block at the net, prompting some players to fall to their knees in tears.

Captain Lynne Beattie said: “Our families have been a huge part of it. There have been so many highs and lows over the last six years of our journey, they have been there to back us up when times have been tough.

"To get a win is fantastic — and for everyone. I feel absolutely amazing. To get a win at the Olympic Games, from where this team has come from - we can be very proud of the result.

"Algeria came out fighting but we showed a lot of character and resilience to come back and to win a fifth set at the Olympics is fantastic.”