Cuba advances into NORCECA U20 Semifinals

FORT LAUDERDALE, United States, July 29, 2016. - Cuba defeated Mexico 3-0 (25-21, 25-19, 25-20) to advance into the NORCECA Women’s U-20 Continental Championship semifinals in Nova Southeastern University of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

The match developed with uneven rhythm, with a spirited Mexico that benefited of Cuba’s errors and on several occasions led in scores, but couldn’t manage to be a threat for the Caribbean girls.

Cuba’s 12-3 margin in blocking was crucial in today´s victory, the held a small advantage in spikes by 41-32 and in serves by 7-6. Both teams were similar in errors; Cuba had 19 and Mexico 15.

Setter Dalila Palma and outside hitter Diaris Perez led Cuba’s offense with 13 points apiece, while Elizabeth Vicet added 10 points. Mexican Kathya Garcia led all scorers with 14 points.

On Friday’s semifinal, Cuba faces United States in the last match of the day.

Captain Diaris Perez of Cuba said “we aren’t happy with yesterday’s loss but winning today motivates us to fight hard tomorrow to reach the gold medal match, we will give one hundred percent”.

“The team showed good serving and their blocking worked well, these are elements that tomorrow will come in handy against a high-leveled rival. Cuba has improved and we hope to make less unforced errors tomorrow; it will be a great spectacle. The girls have ups and downs, it’ normal at this age” said Cuba’s coach Roberto Garcia.

 Captain Kathya Garcia of Mexico indicated “our lack of consistency is hurting us, we need an extra push. Our attitude needs to be more positive, that way we can finish winning”.

Mexican coach Mario Rodriguez said “they are lacking attention in what needs to be done in the court, we need to practice on it. The team is developing, this is our base team for the World Championship and we have time to prepare, especially in our physical condition”.