|
Guatemala debuts with 3-0 victory over Belize
TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras, August 17, 2017. – Guatemala made their
debut at the XII AFECAVOL Girls’ U-18 Central American
Championship with a straight set victory 3-0 (25-11, 25-18,
25-22) over Belize.
On several occasions Belize was in the lead but Guatemala’s
players never lost their calm and went on to finish with a
positive note.
Guatemala benefited from 40 opponent errors while committing 24
of their own. Guatemala prevailed with 24-16 advantage in spikes
and 9-7 in serves; both teams scored two points on the blocks.
Outside hitter Paola Alvarado of Guatemala led all scorers with
12 kills and two blocks, on a total of 14 points.
Paola Alvarado, captain of Guatemala:
“We supported one another the entire match, especially when we
came from behind. I believe our communication will be crucial to
continue winning, we need more energy and to celebrate each time
we score”.
Julio Dominguez, coach of Guatemala:
“I am very happy, my girls performed stable, they were very calm
despite coming from behind on several occasions. The first match
is always difficult, especially coming from traveling 16 hours
and I really didn’t expect them to do so well, I am proud of my
team. The group’s energy is spectacular and I think that if we
keep like this, our results will be positive”.
Jayda Smith, captain of Belize:
“We were very excited to start the game and I know we could have
won, but we let our guard down and Guatemala took advantage. We
need to improve in defense and serving; I expect my team to do
better”.
Delio Arruebarrena, coach of Belize:
“My team did very well against a strong opponent like Guatemala;
they are always among the finalists. Losing concentration made
it hard for my team to keep ahead in the score. Belize allowed
too many points while losing serves, which needs to improve”.
Schedule Friday August 18:
8:30 Nicaragua v El Salvador
10:30 Belize v Honduras
12:30 Costa Rica v Guatemala
15:30 Honduras v Nicaragua
17:30 El Salvador v Guatemala
19:30 Belize v Costa Rica |
