Dominicans open NORCECA defeating Mexico

 

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, October 8, 2019.- Dominican Republic defeated Mexico 3-0 (26-24, 25-11, 25-14) in their opening match at the NORCECA Women’s Continental Championship in Roberto Clemente Coliseum of San Juan, Puerto Rico.

 

Dominican Republic was challenged by a resilient Mexico that came from behind (21-23) to even the scores to 24 for a thriller first set finish. Dominican’s serves adjusted better, as well as their speed to dominate Mexico with better physical condition in their first pool B win.

 

Dominican Republic prevailed 12-10 in attacks and overwhelmed Mexico with 14-7 margin in aces. Both scored 3 points in blocks. The winners committed fewer errors (14-20).

 

Outside hitters Isabel Peña and Bethania De La Cruz led Dominican Republic with 14 points apiece; De La Cruz with 5 aces included. On Mexico’s side, opposite Andrea Rangel was the only player with double-figures, scoring 14 points.

 

The event grants three spots for the final four NORCECA Olympic qualifier to be held in January; except USA that has a ticket to Tokyo 2020, Dominican Republic already qualified to the final four and Cuba whose team is not taking part of the Olympic cycle.

 

The NORCECA Women’s Championship is being streamed on NORCECA TV www.internetv.tv

 

Dominican Republic faces next Trinidad and Tobago, and Mexico plays against United States.

 

Bethania De La Cruz, Dominican Republic: “Mexico always fights strong up to the end, they have a good serve and that put us in trouble at the beginning, in addition that we are coming from a lot of tournaments. We are very glad with our first victory. I know tomorrow will be better, we will be in better rhythm after a week of rest”.

 

Marcos Kwiek, Head Coach of Dominican Republic: “All my players are starting players because they are all at the same game level. We can switch players and use different line-ups depending on the opponent. It’s better if we are challenged because that way we play more and the team gets in better shape”.

 

Gabriela González, Head Coach of Mexico: “We lacked a bit more physical condition to perform the three sets and this also made it hard to keep our mental condition. Dominican Republic is physically very strong. I believe we gave an important step showing a good level in the first set”.