New Zealand Commonwealth Games beach volleyball team Ben O'Dea, left, and Sam O'Dea at Mt Maungaui prior to leaving for the games. Photo / George Novak
New Zealand Commonwealth Games beach volleyball team Ben O'Dea, left, and Sam O'Dea at Mt Maungaui prior to leaving for the games. Photo / George Novak
Beach volleyball is making its first appearance at the Commonwealth Games and the O'Dea brothers Sam, 27, and Ben, 25, were considered gold medal prospects in the men's competition.
The duo defeated Cyprus 2-1 in the first beach volleyball match ever staged at a Commonwealth Games.
On Sunday night, they also saw off the strong England combination of Chris Gregory and Jake Sheaf 2-1.