Nathaly Jimenez leads Honduras with new record on 41 points

TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras, August 19, 2017. – Nathaly Jimenez lead Honduras into beating Guatemala 3-2 (21-25, 25-19, 25-18, 19-25, 15-12) with new scoring record of 41 points at the XII AFECAVOL Girls’ U-18 Central American Championship.

Nathaly Jimenez stormed past Guatemala carrying her team into the title match against Costa Rica with impressive 41 points on 35 kills, 4 blocks and 2 aces. Nathaly broke the Central American record as the top scorer in a match set just two days ago by her teammate Reer James who finished with 25 points against El Salvador.

Alongside Nathaly Jimenez, middle blocker Reer James contributed to Honduras victory with 15 points. On Guatemala’s side, outside hitter Paola Alvarado topped with 18 points and opposite Jimena Castellanos chipped in with 11 points.

Guatemala’s 13-7 advantage in serves was not enough to stop Honduras 52-42 margin in spikes and 6-2 in blocks. Honduras committed 42 unforced errors while Guatemala finished with 40.

Honduras enters the title match undefeated with 4-0 record and 18 points; Guatemala with 2-2 record and 13 points will face Nicaragua for the bronze medal.

Nathaly Jimenez, captain of Honduras: “We had to play a tie-break because our passing was off for five points during the set four. Our energy was always high thanks to the crowd and our desire to fight for the title”.

Catarine Leiva, coach of Honduras: “It’s very excited and satisfying to have won and to continue undefeated. Mentally speaking, my team has grown with every match. Having lost the fourth set is proof that we must be alert always. My girls showed in set five that they are warriors”.