Ningbo, China, August 28,2010 -- The United States fended off a strong challenge from China to continue their unbeaten run at the FIVB World Grand Prix finals here on Saturday.

With the 25-21, 27-25, 25-22 victory, the Americans improved their wining trend to four matches in a row at the six-team round-robin tournament and are on the verge of winning the World Grand Prix finals title for the first time since 2001.

The hosts dropped to 2-2 in win-loss record.

After the United States soon went 14-11 ahead in the opening set to force China coach Wang Baoquan called the first timeout. Star spiker Wang Yimei then inspired a 7-4 run for China to equalize 18-18. But the Americans were quick to restore their lead and when they were 24-21 up, Destinee Hooker, who had been impressive on the right side of the United States offence, smashed a heavy spike in the middle court to claim the set.

The blockings from the United States proved too much for the host China. Trailing by 23-24, the United States saved a set point before wrapping it up 27-25.

The Chinese team came back in the third set, relying on Wang's powerful spikes to spark a comeback halfway. But with Hooker unstoppable in attacking and Foluke Akinradewo efficient in blocking, the United States took control towards the end and clinched victory on an Akinradewo block.