Honduras outclass Belize in five sets

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, December 15, 2017.- Honduras outclass Belize 3-2 (22-25, 16-24, 19-25, 25-21, 15-17) on day six of the men’s Volleyball tournament of the eleventh Central American Games Managua 2017 at Alexis Argüello sport complex.

Honduras had to work hard to outclass Belize’ huge 12-3 advantage in blocking and improve their win-loss record to 3-2 and 12 points. However, the defending champions who have always reached the podium since 1994 are uncertain of winning the bronze medal.

Belize struck hard but remains without victories with 0-5 record and five points.

Honduras scored on 59-47 attacking margin and 3-1 advantage in aces. In errors, Honduras committed 40 and Belize 45.

Honduras focused their offense on middle blocker Ornello Watler with 25 points on 22 kills and two aces and outside hitter William Thompson with 18 points all in kills. Outside hitter Bryton Codd topped Belize with 19 points all in kills, outside hitter Keith Castillo chipped in with 16 points on 11 kills and 5 blocks, and opposite Karym Coleman finished with 11 points.

On the last day of competition, Honduras (3-2) will play against Nicaragua (2-2) and Belize faces Costa Rica (2-3).

Top scorer of Honduras Ornello Watler: “My position gives the opportunity to sit on the bench and study my opponent and what I need to do when I go back on the court. Today I gave all my effort to perform at my best and encourage my team because our energy was low”.

Head coach of Honduras Juan Andres Leon: “There are situations during the game that need to be practiced, gathering the whole team. The relation of passing-attacking against a team a height like Belize and that attacks so high, is different from what we’ve been playing. We need to have strategy, practice and execute. I am pleased with the outcome with such little practice. I hope tomorrow they will follow instructions better”.  

Head coach of Belize Albert Humes: “We are good in reaching five sets; the problem is we can’t finish them. This shows that we did not practice as much as we should have. For heart and pride we have to get one victory, hopefully we can beat Costa Rica”.