MIAMI, Florida, June 28, 2009.- Brazil defeated
Argentina in Pool B third day of action in the
Eighth Pan American Cup, but it was not an easy
victory as the Olympic champions had to battle
hard against their South American neighbors
before prevailing by score of 26-24, 18-25,
25-13, 25-18.
After their slow start the Brazilians went into
their usual rhythm and dominated the
Argentineans for the last two sets. The Beijing
gold medalists outscored their counterparts 23-4
in the blocking department for the match.
Sheila Castro led four Brazilians in
double-figures in scoring with 15 points. Thaisa
Menezes added 12 including five blocks, Welissa
Gonzaga also produced 12 points, Fabiana
Claudino chipped in 11 with three blocks and
Natalia Pereira contributed nine with four
blocks.
Georgina Pinedo and Lucia Fresco topped the
Argentinean scoring with 15 and 10 points
respectively.
“Argentina played very well during the first two
sets,” said Roberto Guimaraes, the Brazilian
coach. “Once we found stability in our serves,
our blocking took care and we played with more
calm.”
“For the first two sets we maintained a good
level with intensity and precision,” said
Argentinean coach Horacio Bastit. “From the
third set on, it was a different game with
Brazil establishing sensational blocking.
That was the difference.” |