Dominican Republic defeated Poland at its own soil 

BYDGSZCZ, Poland, August 18, 2006.- Nurys Arias led a well balanced attack scoring at least 20 points for the second time, and the Dominican Republic defeated Poland at its own soil by score of 25-23, 25-20, 28-30, 25-17.

It was the second triumph for the Dominicans in three outings at the 2006 FIVB World Grand Prix, finishing the Polish leg only behind the unbeaten Italy.

It was the third time in four contests that Dominican Republic gets the win over Poland going back to the 2003 World Cup.

Arias, who led the Dominican victory over USA with 26 points, had 20 this time and was joined in the attack by Annerys Vargas with 15 points, including six blocks. Cosiris Rodriguez added 14 and Cindy Rondon and Milagros Cabral contributed 12 and 11 respectively.

Anna Podelec led Poland with 12 points, Joanna Mirek and Sylwia Pycia each had 11 and Katarzyna Skowronska charted 10 points.

“We have accomplished our first goal of getting two victories in this first leg,” said Miguel Beato Cruz, the Dominican coach. “The key today was the power of our attack, the aggressive serves and the blocking.”

“It was a team effort and our players maintained the focus despite playing against the host team and the supporting crowd,” he added.