Dominicans crushed Guatemala to begin Group A

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, October 13, 2017 – Dominican Republic pummeled Guatemala 3-0 (25-7, 25-7, 25-11) in the second match of Day One at the NORCECA Women’s Qualification Tournament Group A on Friday.

The Dominicans served well and displayed excellent defense at the net to claim the win. The top two ranked teams at the conclusion of the tournament will earn tickets to the FIVB Women’s World Championship next year in Japan.

Yonkaira Peña came off the bench to lead the Dominican Republic with 12 points, including a match-high 7 aces. Gina Mambru was next with 9 points and 5 aces, while Bethania de la Cruz and Yinerys Martínez finished with 8 and 7, respectively.

Blanca Recinos was the best offensive player for Guatemala with 6 points.

The winners blanked their opponents 22-0 in aces and had the edge in blocks 3-1.

William Fernández, Coach of Guatemala: “We knew the opponent was tough due to their level of competition. A team with a lot of power and we had problems with our reception. We have to work in our reception for the next matches.”

Blanca Recinos, Captain of Guatemala: “We faced a great team that created problems with their strength.”

Marcos Kwiek, Coach of Dominican Republic: “We have worked well in the days before the tournament and had the chance to move around my players. I think we can improve our level but there are only three matches. Tomorrow against Jamaica we have to elevate our level of game to be ready for Sunday.”

Bethania De la Cruz, Captain of Dominican Republic: “We didn’t know anything about Guatemala but entered the match well concentrated. We could develop our game and the reserve players were able to see action. Tomorrow against Jamaica we don’t have information only a little of their match today, but the key is to be focused.”