Dominican Republic reach semifinals

CIUDAD JUAREZ, Mexico, July 18, 2012 – Dominican Republic reached the semifinals of the XI Women’s Pan American Cup following a straight-set (25-16, 25-17, 25-20) victory over Peru.

Annerys Vargas’ 16 points topped the Dominican side while Bethania De la Cruz, Lisvel Eve and Prisilla Rivera contributed 12, 10 and 9 points respectively. Carla Rueda finished with 13 points as the only Peruvian with double digits.

As one of the semifinalists, Dominican Republic joined USA and Cuba as NORCECA’s teams with secure tickets to the 2013 FIVB World Grand Prix.

“It was a good game but we have to put it in the past and prepare for tomorrow’s match,” Dominican Prisilla Rivera said.

“We had to deal with a high and very compact block,” Peru’s Elena Keldibekova said. “They (Dominicans) have been playing together for a long time.”

“We achieved our top goal here which was qualifying to the World Grand Prix,” Dominican Republic’s coach Marcos Kwiek said. “It was the second match for Bethania and we are getting her into rhythm.”

“Dominican Republic is one of the favorites to win the tournament,” Peru’s Edwin Jimenez said. “We are still alive in the competition for the South American’s berth to the World Grand Prix.”