Colombia earn first victory, Mexico finish winless

CIUDAD JUAREZ, Mexico, July 18, 2012 — Colombia defeated Mexico in five sets (25-23, 21-25, 25-16, 21-25, 15-13) at the XI Women’s Pan American Cup. The loss meant the home side finished winless in the tournament.

Colombia’s Maria Martinez (5 aces), Diana Arrechea and Melissa Rangel were the best scorers with 29, 28 and 12 points respectively. For Mexico, Alejandra Isiordia scored 13 and ClaudIa Rios 16.

“This was a great match, unfortunately Mexico failed and my teammates needed a lot more to define it, we had a few days to practice for the tournament and this is an influence in the result,” said Mexican captain Karla Sainz.

“For the last match it was very important to do the things the best possible way, but we still have to correct some mistakes and play hungrier on the court,” Lorena Zuleta said about Colombia.

For coach Mauro Marasciulo: “We have to finish with confidence, this is a young team and sometimes a young team is like a five or eight months-old baby. You have to be patient and need more competition.”

Meanwhile, Mexico’s coach Estanislao Vachino remarked: “We saw two young teams on the court. You could notice that by the mistakes, but Colombia did a good job, and is a team with good biotype. In my case we have to work harder and make the girls to really love the shirt of Mexico”.