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April 8, 2010

Puerto Rico Easily Dominates Group B


GUADALAJARA, Mexico, April 8, 2010 – Puerto Rico recorded an easy straight sets win against Dominican Republic by score of 25-16, 25-6. 25-15 claiming the top place of Pool B at NORCECA Boys’ Youth Continental Tournament, a qualifier to the 2010 Youth Olympic Games in Singapore.

 

There was very little the Dominican selection could do against opponents of bigger size and a team that also plays harmoniously, especially with their effective blocking. The winning team was able to score 16 consecutive points starting in the second set.

 

The winners’ attack was evenly distributed, with Emmanuel Romero (8 points) as the higher scorer, followed by Carlos Acosta (7 points).  The biggest contributor on the Dominican side was Julio Cesar Almonte with 7 points.

 

Ramon Lawrence, the Cuban-born coach for Puerto Rico, said “we played a great match, somehow different, the blocking was effectively done but also the Dominicans weren’t able to deliver on their tactical plan.”

 

He also remarked that the objective for his team is to win the title but admits than more than one team is in good shape to meet that same goal, adding “Cuba, for instance, is recognized worldwide for the strength of their attack.”

 

“To be at Cuba’s level, or even the United States, will be a great privilege for us as we are working in developing these talented young players with an eye on making the national team.”

 

Ramon Burgos, Team Captain for Puerto Rico, expressed “we played more freely and we improved our serve in comparison to the game we had previously played against Curacao.  Little by little, we’re increasing our level.”

 

Osiel Vazquez, Technical Director for the Dominican Republic, lamented that his players didn’t comply with their tactical strategy and added “they couldn’t overcome the high blockage from the rivals.”

 

Manuel Arturo Acosta, the Dominican Team Captain, added “we needed more energy and the courage to do what we should and that usually doesn’t work in our favor.”

 

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