Dominicans set to seize second NORCECA U20 title in a row

AGUASCALIENTES, Mexico, June 22,  2018.- Dominican Republic is set to seize their second Women’s NORCECA U20 Championship title winning in semifinals to Cuba 3-0 (25-17, 25-17, 25-21) at Aguascalientes, México.

In addition to playing for the title, Dominicans will seek to qualify once again to the FIVB World Championship next year. This is the seventh occasion that Dominican Republic reaches the title match, winning two times. Dominicans enter the gold medal match with unbeaten 4-0 record.

Dominican Republic neutralized pumped up Ailama Cese and Evilania Martinez with Natalia Martinez and Madeline Guillen’s offense, with effective attacks and very well-directed serves and blocking power.

Dominicans led in blocking 8-2 and 9-2 in aces; Cuba led in kills with 36-33 margin. Dominican Republic committed 15 unforced errors and scored on 25 opponent errors.

Wing spiker Natalia Martínez of Dominican Republic led all scorers with 17 points, on 13 kills, one block and 3 aces. Jazmin Guillene joined in with 12 points, on 9 attacks and 3 serving points. Cuban Ailama Cese scored 13 points, on 12 kills and one block; opposite player Evilania Martínez added 10 points as substitute player in the second set and playing the entire third set.

Camila De La Rosa of Dominican Republic: “We were passionate, we were united and we were Smart. We haven’t reached our goal yet. Cuba pressured us with their strong wing spikers, but we recovered by serving well. In my opinion our possibilities of winning the tournament are high”.

Wagner Pacheco head coach of Dominican Republic: “These are two good teams; we respect each other very much. This is so far our best performance in the tournament, my girls were focused; they battled well, and counterattacked well too. Our serves helped and our defense was sharp. For me, our concentration and high spirit were essential in today’s victory”.

Regla Torres head coach of Cuba: “They couldn’t execute our tactic plan. My players are still too anxious. The lack of practice matches and preparation is obvious. Added to the fact that Dominicans are the world sub champions and play at a higher level; I am not content. We must fight strong tomorrow, our next opponent won’t hand out anything”.