Unlike Italy Russia did really well in reception. For me Sperskaite was the player of the match. She was the second best scorer, best server (4 aces) and solid in reception. She might have played her best match this year. Novik made some unusual mistakes in the first set but I still think she has a chance to be back up in the NT next year (will get much more playtime this club season). I am still not conviced that Lazareva will become a starter in the NT but maybe she will get more time to shine in France.