The Russians were streets ahead of the rest of the field as they ended on a score of 37.408 points, comfortably in front of Belarus.

The Belarusian outfit finished on 36.849 to snatch silver, while hosts Israel delighted the crowd inside the Toto Arena by rounding off the podium thanks to scoring 36.549.

Italy weren’t quite able to do enough to earn a medal as they came fourth having mustered a total of 35.933 as the day again belonged to the Russians, who are the overwhelming favourites to reign supreme in the rhythmic discipline at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.

Russia dealt with the high expectation in style, recording the highest exhibition scores across the board on their way to the summit of the European Championships podium.

The Russian dominance continued in the other events on the first day of competition in Holon as they topped the standings in the five ribbons final with a score of 18.583.

Belarus followed them in second place with 18.333, with Israel third on 18.216.

Defending five ribbons champions Italy will have to improve considerably if they are to cling on to their European crown as they finished a disappointing fourth with a total of 17.983.

The two hoops/three pairs of clubs competition mirrored the same top three as the five ribbons, with Russia leading the way on 18.825.

Belarus’ 18.516 saw them claim second spot ahead of Israel, who were given 18.333 for their routine to edge Bulgaria.

Senior ball and club finals are scheduled to take place tomorrow before the event concludes on Sunday (June 19).