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SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, August 28, 2015. - Guatemala
struggled to beat Belize 3-1 (25-10, 25-14, 22-25, 25-12) in
their debut at the Men’s U-21 XVI Central American Championship
that kicked off on Friday at San Salvador.
Guatemala completely dominated the actions in the first set with
a comfortable win 25-10. For the second set, Belize gained power
surprising Guatemala with an early advantage of 5-0; this didn’t
last long as the Guatemalan squad again controlled Belize 25-14.
Belize took advantage of Guatemala’s numerous errors in defense
and passing in the third set, improving their strength in
blocking and spikes taking a close win 25-22. Guatemala had
difficulties to get into rhythm in the fourth set but when they
adjusted their defense they managed an effective passing winning
with great advantage 25-12.
Guatemala topped in spikes 50-30 while Belize did better in
blocking 8-6 and in aces 4-3. Guatemala scored on 38 errors from
Belize and committed 19.
Opposite Erik Flores of Guatemala led all scorers with 19
points, followed by Outside Hitters Wagner Chacon with 18 and
Andy Rodriguez with 12. Outside Hitter Gabriel Nunez led Belize
with 12 points, Lino Jaryn, Dane Bradley and Alwyn Mahung added
7 points each.
Erik Flores Guatemala’s captain said “the first match isn’t
easy; the team must adjust to the weather conditions and the
court. We lost focus in the third set and we are missing two
players that arrive tomorrow to complete the team”.
Alwyn Mahung captain of Belize expressed “it was a good match,
we limited our errors in the third set and capitalized on
theirs; we lost focus as well”.
Cuban Reider Lucas, coach of Guatemala said “it’s the first
match of the competition and it’s difficult to adjust. We
weren’t expecting this result and I want to congratulate Belize
because the worked hard to win the third set, I wish them well.
We committed too many errors in the third and it’s impossible to
keep rhythm performing like that”.
Leslie Leon coach of Belize indicated “it was a tough match;
usually it’s how the first match goes. Guatemala is one of the
strongest teams here. I expect my guys to improve minimizing
errors”. |
