Argentina defeats Canada in five dramatic sets

TRUJILLO, Peru, July 6, 2019 - Argentina claimed the first victory in Pool A of the XVIII Pan American Cup, after coming back and beating Canada 3-2 (25-27, 25-23, 25-21; 23-25; 19-17) on Saturday at the Gran Chimú Coliseum in Trujillo.

 Guided in the attack by the opposite Lucia Fresco, Argentina took revenge for the defeat they suffered against Canada just a week ago in the qualifier to the League of Nations 2020, the Challenger Cup held in the Peruvian capital.

Fresco was the top scorer of the match with 35 points, followed by top attackers Yamila Nizetich and Elina Rodríguez with 22 and 10 points respectively. For Canada, the leadership was taken by Lea Gray who scored 34 points, her captain Kyla Richey finished with 19 and Emily Maglio 15.

Argentina imposed its rhythm of play from the service zone winning by 11 points to only 6 of Canada. They also led by a minimum advantage in attack (63-61), but their opponent was powerfully superior in blocking (7-22).

Captain of Argentina, Julieta Lazcano: We knew that the previous game in Lima, had not reflected our true game, we were left wanting more. Argentina is a team that grows game by game and today, knowing the rival, we left with everything for the rematch.

Captain of Canada, Kyla Richie: I think number 5 Lucia Fresco was unstoppable and we did not get the angle to stop her, we allowed her many clean attacks and we could not establish our blockade like in Lima. Unfortunately we could not establish our game, for the next game we need to do a little more our game and be much better behind the service line.

Canada will play the second match of the group this Sunday 07 at 18:00 Peruvian time against the selection of Cuba. Next, the South American volleyball classic, Argentina against Peru, will be held.