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BAYAMON, Puerto Rico, October 12, 2009 –
Three-time defending champions USA recorded a
25-15, 28-26, 25-16 victory over Mexico in the
first match of Pool B of NORCECA Men’s
Continental Championship at Ruben Rodriguez
Coliseum.
The Americans outscored their opponents 11-5 in
blocks and 12-4 in the ace services category.
Evan Patak led the winners with 16 points
including four aces, Sean Rooney compiled 11
points with four blocks and Paul Lotman scored
six aces en route to 11 tallies. Thomas Hoff
contributed 9 points, including three blocks.
The only Mexican in double-figures was Leonardo
Manzo with 14 points.
“I am very proud of the way my players kept
their composure in the second set when Mexico
put a lot of pressure on us,” said Alan Knipe,
the U.S. Coach. “Obviously we need to clean up
some things to reach the level we want to play.”
“We gave away some points late in the second set
but that has to do with the lack of maturity of
our young players,” said Jorge Azair, the
Mexican coach. “We had some difficulties with
the reception that prevented the win but that’s
part of the lack of experience.”
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