Cuba wins bronze and ticket to Peru

TIJUANA, Mexico, July 10, 2010 – Cuba downed Mexico in straight sets (25-20, 25-19, 25-21) to claim the bronze medal of the NORCECA Women’s Junior Volleyball Championship and the remaining ticket to next year’s FIVB World Championship for players of under 20 years-old.

Cuba’s Captain Yusnieska Robles recorded 23 points, including two blocks and two aces, while Rosana Giel, Jennifer Alvarez and Sulian Matienzo registered 15, 14 and 9 points respectively. Samantha Bricio was the only Mexican with double digits with 13 points.

“We came back strong after losing last night against Dominican Republic,” Robles said. “The team entered the court determined to win the remaining ticket to the World Championship.”

“We achieved our goal of gaining the ticket to Peru,” Cuban Coach Wilfredo Robinson said. “With today’s victory we start our preparation for the world tournament.”

Mexico’s Coach Alfredo Bernal commented: “Cuba played very aggressive with their serves and their strong attacks. The gap between us and the stronger teams of NORCECA has been reduced but we still need to improve our height and strength.”