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GATINEAU, August 9, 2022- Mexico overcame a 0-2
deficit to shock hosts Canada 3-2 (23-25, 13-25,
25-21, 25-23 and 15-11) in Pool B action of the
15th Pan American Cup at the Slush
Puppy in Gatineau, Quebec.
Mexico, who is fielding their best team in
preparation for the World Championships, started
out well, leading 8-6 and 16-12 at the technical
time-outs. But Canada bounced back and tied the
set at 18 points. With the scored at 23 points,
an attack out of bounds by the opponent and a
solo block by Mahias Elser paid the way for
Canada to win 25-23.
Canada kept the momentum on court and built a
sizable 16-11 lead in the second set. Two
consecutive aces by Brodie Hofer put Canada in a
comfortable position as they secured a
comfortable 25-13 victory.
Mexico rebounded and started strong in the third
set 5-0. Canada responded and moved to the front
16-15 at the second time-out. The score remained
even, but captain Christian Aranda unleashed
three consecutive aces to win 25-21.
Canada seemed destined to finish the match in
four sets as they led 8-4 and 16-12 at the two
technical timeouts. Mexico shortened the deficit
and managed to tie at 20 points. A solid attack
and an ace by Josue Lopez helped them prevail
25-23 to force a tie-break.
Mexico maintained their inspiration and built an
early 5-2 lead, but Canada responded and tied
the game at seven. With the scored even at 10,
solid attacks by Mauro Fuentes, Diego Gonzalez
and a block by Jonathan Martinez and Josue Lopez
put Mexico 14-11 ahead and they finally sealed
the match victory 15-11 after two hours and ten
minutes of play.
Josue Lopez led the Mexican offense with 16
points, followed by Diego Gonzalez (12) and
Mauro Fuentes (12). Brodie Hofer was Canada’s
top scorer with 23 points. Mathias Elser (14)
and Cole Ketrzynski (10) were also in double
digits.
Canada plays Puerto Rico and Mexico faces Brazil
Wednesday in Pool B.
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