Guatemala scores their first win

HAVANA Cuba, October 7, 2014 – Guatemala scored their first win by overcoming Trinidad and Tobago 3-1 (25-18, 23-25, 25-21, 25-16) on the third day of the II U-23 Pan American Men’s Volleyball Cup at the Coliseum of the Sport City.  

The Central Americans started leading the match, but the Caribbeans finally won at least one set at this tournament, something they almost did when losing closely against the Dominicans in the second set 25-27 on Monday.  However, today in the third set they wasted an advantage of four points (11-15) when they collapsed, while Guatemala reacted by tallying 14 points to stop their rivals’ impetuosity.

In the fourth set, the Central Americans did not lose the initiative and they could smile at the end of a match which lasted one hour and 35 minutes. The offense was led by Axel Menendez (12), and Carlos Lopez and Gerardo Gonzalez both tallying 10; although the top scorers were the Trinidadians: Newton Grant (17) and Brandon Legall (13).   

Guatemala led in spikes (48-38), as well as the services (2-0), and they also made fewer errors (30-42). On the other hand, the Trinidadians showed better blocking (12-6).  

The Cuban, Reider Lucas, coach of Guatemala, did not hide his joy for the success and stated: “That’s what we came for, to play, try to improve our game level and take advantages of each match. If winning, it is better. Although I recognize my boys did not play at the level they usually do it. Anyway, the victory came up and that’s what matters.”   

Gerardo Gonzalez, Central American captain, expressed: “We won but were not on the court as expected, because we lost a set and it does not favor us. I believe it was due to our attitude and overconfidence.”   

Gideon Dickson, coach of Trinidad and Tobago, was happy as they got at least a set out of their rivals. However, he stated: “Once more we had difficulty in setting and it decreased our confidence in ourselves. We lost consistency and intensity in the most part of the match. Nevertheless, I congratulate Guatemala on their win.”

Brando Legall, the Caribbean captain, explained: “We started as planned and step by step we got what we wanted. However, our rhythm of playing went down and we were not able to attain much more.”