The only thing missing was the weather, which had a very unsummer-like feel to it, with overcoats being the order of the day. And the cold conditions, as Russia's coach explained, certainly didn't help the players.

The spectators were here to see Russia get their Euroleague campaign underway against Romania.

It's still very early in the beach soccer season, and it took the home side some time to get going, as they struggled to put any decent combinations together early on. Then again, as Russia's captain explained, this isn't really their style.

The home side eventually managed to get going, and moved into a comfortable lead following the first of three periods, each lasting 12 minutes.

Russia would go into the final period with a comfortable three-goal cushion, against a Romania side that was struggling to keep pace with one of beach soccer's top sides.

The home team eased to a 9-3 victory, playing some entertaining football as the match wore on, much to the delight of their captain.

An easy victory for Russia in the end, but they'll face a much bigger test on Saturday, when they face Poland in their second match. The Poles will be desperate for a win, after losing their opening encounter to Italy after extra time.