Historic Dominican victory over Canada

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, July 10, 2012 - Dominican Republic won their first ever victory over Canada in men’s volleyball with a 3-0 (25-23, 25-20, 25-17) victory on Tuesday.

It was the second victory for the home side in Pool A, while the young team of Canada suffered its second loss.

One experienced trio led the winners’ offense with 17 points by Elvis Contreras followed by Jose Miguel Caceres and Ernis Palomino with 14 and 12 respectively. Braden McLean topped the North Americans who led in blocks (12-4). The winners had the advantage in attacks (42-25) and serves (8-3).

Cuban Osiel Vasquez, who is debuting as coach of the Dominicans, praised the Canadian team, whose members considered very talented.

"They starred in an excellent match and the future will give these young players plenty to do in the NORCECA area and worldwide, but my boys carried out properly the theoretical study of the game, met the tactical discipline and we motivated them to get the victory. I always trust them.”

Lawrence McKay, coach of Canada, said: "It was an honor to play with the Dominicans at their home, that fact is always good because the game is handled differently. We had very good moments, but occasionally lowered the level. We hope to keep that pace the rest of the matches we have left. "

Burt Maxwell, captain of the Canadian, praised the good performance of the home team, “which showed a very difficult service and for that reason we could not recover. But we also played with little intensity in front of them, backed by their fans. An extra push always helps, but I recognize that this team is very talented and prepared. "

José Miguel Cáceres, capitán de los anfitriones, dijo estar de acuerdo con su colega Burt, “sin dudas que estar delante de nuestro público nos motivó más y contribuyó al triunfo, y estamos alegres porque el bloqueo de los equipos de Canadá siempre han sido un ejemplo en el mundo por la organización y su altura, no había jugado contra estos jugadores, son muy buenos, pero nosotros cumplimos todas las indicaciones técnicas del entrenador”.

Jose Miguel Caceres, captain of the hosts, said he agreed with his colleague Burt. "Without any doubt, to be in front of our fans contributed to be more motivated to win, and we are happy because the blocking of Canadian teams has always been an example in the world by the organization and its height. I had not played against these players who are very good, but we fulfilled all the technical instructions of the coach.”