Peru defeats Argentina in five-set duel

LIMA, Peru, October 16, 2014 – Peru claimed their first victory in the U20 Women’s Volleyball Final Four Gatorade Cup winning a five-set thrilling duel against Argentina (26-24, 19-25, 25-19, 15-25, 15-10) at Eduardo Dibos Coliseum on Thursday.

Angela Leyva, the captain of the host team, led the Peruvian offense with 13 points, followed by Maguilaura Frias and Luciana del Valle with 12 points apiece while Coraima Gomez added 10. Argentina’s Sol Piccolo had a match-high 19 points, Irene Verasio added 14 while Candelaria Herrera and Camila Huerta scored 12 and 11, respectively, in the loss.

While Peru had a better blocking than Argentina (10-8) and led in services (4-3), the team coached by Guillermo Nazabal outscored the hosts in attacks (56-50).

Martin Escudero, coach of Peru, praised the high level showed by Argentina saying that “it was a tough game as we knew Argentina would be a difficult opponent even more now that they have added some players. Today they proved to be a technical team with good defense. That was the reason the game was complicated.”

Luciana del Valle, who stood out as offensive contributor for Peru said: “We are glad with the result as we knew Argentina was a tough rival but we got the win and that’s what matters. The advantage for tomorrow is that we are well motivated to continue winning and solidifying our growth.”

Guillermo Nazabal, coach of Argentina: “We had a lot of weaknesses and Peru took advantage of it. The game slipped out of our hands and they were able to get the control. The Peruvians were leading the whole match and we couldn’t overcame them and had to play at their pace. They are always a good rival and it helps the preparation of our girls.”

Sol Piccolo, captain of Argentina: “It was a well fought match and it could have gone either way. Peru had a very good offensive and defensive game. We gave our best but it was not enough to get the victory.”