Argentina climb the semifinals of U-23 Cup

Lima, Peru, September 5, 2012 – Argentina scored a 3-0 (25-19, 25-19, 25-16) over Canada in just 67 minutes in the first quarterfinal match of the U-23 Women’s Pan American Cup at Miguel Grau Coliseum of Lima on Thursday.

Once again Lucia Fresco, the top scorer of the competition, led the offense of Argentina with 23 points, including three aces and two blocks while Tanya Acosta added 12, including four aces in the victory. Sophie Carpentier was the only Canadian with double figures in the score charts with 11 points and Amy Leschied chipped in eight tallies.

Argentina held slim advantages of 5-4 in blocks and 7-5 in service winners while managed a 42-30 margin in attacks.

“Our service worked perfectly today and that was the key for the victory against a team solid at the net,” Argentina’s Horacio Bastit said. “It was our best game so far, because against Brazil and Colombia we only played good ball for moments. Seven of these girls are playing in their first international competition.”

“We expected to have a better game against Argentina, even though we know they are a very strong team,” Canada’s coach Ryan Hofer said. “They have a very strong attack but that’s part of our learning process.”

Antonela Curatola, captain of Argentina commented: “We are very happy for the victory. It is our best game in the tournament and we had solid serve and reception. We expected to have more fought clash.”

“We gave our best,” Canada’s captain Kelci French said. “Now we have to improve in our next outings.”