Easy win for Cuba over Costa Rica

HAVANA, Cuba, March 18, 2013 - Cuba beat Costa Rica 3-0 (25-14, 25-13, 25-19) in Group B to the start with an important step in their quest to qualify for the world in that category.

It was evident the physical superiority and technical-tactical of the home team, mainly because of its attack, with few actions in the net and could not do damage with their services.

The top scorer of the match was the opposite Meliza Vargas (17), followed by the outside hitter Sulian Matienzo (12), the only Cuban double digits.

The other two teams battling for the spot in the world championship in Czech Republic next June are Puerto Rico and Chile, which clashed earlier with the Puerto Ricans prevailing in five sets.

The Cuban coach Tomas Fernandez was not satisfied with his team despite the victory."I expected more from the girls but I have to admit that opening day brings some jitters.”

Marilín Pagés, captain of the Caribbean, acknowledged that "we pressed because it is the first time we play at Ciudad Deportiva”.

Eladio Vargas, Costa Rica coach, said: "I liked the positive attitude of my team even though I would have liked more fighting spirit.”

Daniela Vargas, captain of the Central Americans, praised the Cubans for its strength in attack and service, "It is a great team and to play them helps us a lot."