Experienced Dominicans defeat young Cubans

MEXICO CITY, Mexico, June 12, 2014 – Dominican Republic defeated a stubborn young Cuba 3-1 (24-26, 25-17, 25-21, 25-18) to earn their second victory in Pool A of the Women’s Volleyball Pan American Cup at Juan de la Barrera Gymnasium on Thursday.

The young Cubans won the battle of the blocks 13-6 but gave away 43 points via unforced errors to 30 by the Dominicans who held an 8-2 advantage in aces.

Bethania De la Cruz spearheaded the winners with 17 points, including one block and two aces, while Candida Arias recorded 4 blocks among her 13 points. Yonkaira Peña contributed 11 tallies in the victory.

Melissa Vargas and Sulian Matienzo topped Cuba with 13 and 12 points, respectively, while Alena Rojas scored eight, including four blocks.

“It was an important victory for us,” De la Cruz said. “Cuba started with a lot of energy and we were a little slow but then in the early going of the second set we adjusted our game and got the win.”

“Cuba pressed with their serves and won the first set but then we adjusted our reception and the defense improved with our experience,” Brazilian coach of Dominican Republic Marcos Kwiek said.

“The Dominican team is one with experience and high level,” Cuba’s Captain Sulian Matienzo said. “They have a good libero who defends very well and we lack the experience.”

Juan Carlos Gala, Cuba’s Coach said: “We went in to battle against the experience and the players did good. It is a young team and lost the focus in the third set. The Dominicans played with calm in the key moments because of their experience.”