Dominicans get easy win over Uruguay

HAVANA, Cuba, March 28, 2017 – The Dominican Republic, already qualified to the world championship, cruised past Uruguay in straight sets 3-0 (25-14, 25-9, 25-14) in the second match of opening day at U18 Girls’ Pan American Cup.

Madeline Guillen and Yaneirys Rodriguez contributed 13 and 11 points in the lopsided victory. The Dominicans held 8-2 and 7-1 advantages in blocks and aces, respectively.

Alexandre Ceccato, coach of Dominican Republic: “The girls started a little bit nervous but then they played better. They are more used to play than our rivals.”

Luis Baladon, coach of Uruguay: “We played against a world powerhouse. It is not an easy team. We played a fair first set and then we showed flashes. Their combinations left us without bullets.”

Yaneirys Rodriguez, captain of Dominican Republic: “I think we did it well because we played together but we tried harder in our first match. The Uruguayans are good but they lacked teamwork, I think.”

Natalia Rodriguez, captain of Uruguay: “It is clear they are bigger than us and we somehow played with some fear of their attack and blocking. I think the problem was in our heads. For moments we showed we could play better but lost the concentration.”