Canada advances to semis after win over Puerto Rico

WINNIPEG, Canada, September 4, 2019 - Canada earned its second win today, and advances to the semifinals after beating Puerto Rico 3-0 (25-20, 25-18, 25-21) at the Men’s 2019 NORCECA Continental Championships today in Winnipeg, Canada.

Nicholas Hoag (15 points) and Sharone Vernon-Evans (13 points) led the attack for Canada, with both serving up three aces.

Puerto Rico’s captain Maurice Torres was top points contributor for his side with 15 points.

The tournament serves as a pre-qualifier for the zonal 2020 Olympic continental qualifier next January.

Thursday’s quarterfinals see Mexico take on Dominican Republic, and Cuba face Puerto Rico.  The U.S. also advances directly to the semis, and Guatemala finishes seventh overall.

Puerto Rico, head coach, Oswald Antonetti: “We started ok in every set. We kept our rhythm until 16 or 17 points – they play at a higher level and they capitalized on our mistakes. Canada is a good team and they have experience; it’s good for us to play against this type of team.  We just need to keep working and stay focused.”

Canada team captain Gordon Perrin: “We had a different lineup today (than yesterday vs Mexico). We trust everybody on our 14-man roster and they showed some good quality today, and they got the win.  It’s nice to finish first in our pool and get a day’s rest, watch the other teams and prepare for the semi-final.”