Canada's Gavin Schmitt spikes into Poland's Marcin Mozdzonek, left, and Michal Winiarski, during a first round match between Canada and Poland at the Men's Volleyball World Championships, in Trieste, Italy, Saturday, Sept. 25, 2010. Poland won 3-0.Paolo Giovannini
The Canadian men's volleyball team gave Poland a surprisingly strong game at the world championship on Saturday, but still ended up with a 25-22, 25-21, 25-13 loss.
Saskatoon's Gavin Schmitt had 11 points for Canada, which jumped out to a 9-6 lead in the first set against the 2009 European champions. However, two late missed serves cost them the set.
The teams also played a tight second set.
"We showed that we can play at that level, but we lost on consistency," said Schmitt.
Added Polish coach Daniel Castellani: "We didn't expect Canada to be that strong. In the first two sets they showed strong attacks and outstanding defence."
Canada faces medal favourite Serbia on Sunday.