Ludmila fires Martinique to easy win in CAZOVA WCH Qualifier

KINGSTON, Jamaica, July 26, 2017 - Lican Ludmila turned in a devastating performance that enabled Martinique to power past Bahamas 3-0 in their Group D preliminary round match, on the opening day of the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) 2017 World Championship Qualifying Second Round competition on Wednesday afternoon.

The tournament also doubles as the Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association (CAZOVA) Women’s Championship and is being staged at the National Indoor Sports Centre, Independence Park Complex.

Ludmila’s was particularly severe on her opponents at the net, punishing them with 15 spikes on the way to totalling 18 points. Those numbers were very telling in both the individual set scorelines and time, as Martinique averaged roughly 21 minutes per set to pummel their opponents 25-15, 25-19, 25-13.

Another telling contribution for Martinique came from libero Beltant Noemie, who spiked nine of her 10 points. Sabina Aida and Abathi Helaijah also contributed well to the overall numbers for Martinique numbers, who won easily despite racking up 26 errors.

That was significantly more than the Bahamas default total, 19. However, the latter were not measuring their serves well and this affected their chances of setting the tone for the games.

“Martinique is very strong with the serves, Bahamas is not so good with the serve,” observed Dinal Roberto, assistant coach of the Martinique team.

Bonamy Brittany was Bahamas’ best hitter, converting seven spikes in her eight points, while Bastian Melinda chipped in with six points.

Roberto said the win provides Martinique with momentum and optimism for the remainder of the tournament.

“The first game prepares us for the second game. It’s good for the confidence, because the second game is more difficult,” said Roberto, reflecting also on their second match, which will be played on Thursday afternoon against the defending champions.

“I believe Trinidad is very difficult,” he said.

Eight teams are participating and the highest ranked in the 2017 CAZOVA Women’s Championship, along with already-qualified Trinidad and Tobago, will advance to the Third Round of the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) World Championship Qualifiers.

The Trinidadians will host one of the World Championship Qualifying groups.