Cuba won impressive comeback, Dominicans lost in five sets 

NINGBO, China, September 1, 2006.- Cuba staged an impressive comeback victory over Poland in a five-set thriller Friday on the opening day of the final weekend of FIVB World Grand Prix women's volleyball tournament.

Cuba, which has five victories in a row, is almost a cinch to make the final round of this annual competition. The score was 18-25, 25-27, 25-15, 25-16, 15-9.

Nancy Carrillo and Rosir Calderon had 28 and 24 points respectively to lead the Cuban victory. Yumilka Ruiz added 18 and Yenissey Gonzalez and Daimi Ramirez each contributed 11 points.

Cuba coach Felipe Calderon said his team deserved to win the match. "Poland is a good team, but my players worked very hard. A hard-working team always deserves the victory," he said.

Meanwhile, Dominican Republic lost a dramatic five-setter to host Japan playing at Okayama.

The Japanese saved two match-points to prevail by score of 25-16, 18-25, 25-16, 15-25, 16-14.

Erika Araki led Japan with 20 points and Sachiko Sugiyama added 18, Kana Oyama and Miyuki Takahashi each had 15 points and Saori Kimura contributed 11 points, including four in the tie-breaker.

Annerys Vargas was the top Dominican with 18 points, Cosiris Rodriguez added 17, Milagros Cabral had 14 and Cindy Rondon and Nurys Arias had 12 apiece.

Meanwhile in Bangkok, USA defeated Thailand 3-0 (29-27, 25-15, 27-25) with Heather Bown leading the attack with 19 points and Danielle Scott and Nancy Metcalf scored 14 apiece.

Cuba leads all three NORCECA Confederation teams participating at the event with a 5’2 record. USA is 3-4 and Dominican Republic 2-5.