Handball: Ruthless Russia too good for Team GB

July 30, 2012: Things get rough in the handball as Team GB are beaten by Russia (GETTY IMAGES)

Great Britain women were soundly beaten 37-16 by Russia in their second Group A preliminary match at the Copper Box yesterday afternoon.

Having made their Olympics debut with a promising display in a 31-19 defeat against medal-hopefuls Montenegro on Saturday night, there was no let-up against a Russia side who are former world champions and also eyeing a spot on the podium in a fortnight's time.

Britain's performance was again promising but ultimately they struggled to cope with the power of their vastly physically superior opponents, who ended up winning at a canter.

Lyn Byl top-scored for the hosts with five while Sarah Hargreaves impressed in goal with a number of important saves.

The defeat leaves Britain bottom of Group A.