Canada books ticket to the semifinal

MAYAGÜEZ, Puerto Rico, August 31, 2011. – Canada booked the ticket to the semifinal of the Men’s NORCECA Continental Championship prevailing Puerto Rico in straight sets (25-17, 25-20, 25-17) in the last match of round robin action to finish first in Pool A with a perfect 3-0 win-loss record.

Canadians dominated the entire match as Puerto Rico couldn’t respond to Canada´s splendid blocks. Canada recently qualified to the FIVB World League eliminating Puertoricans. Canada awaits the winner between Cuba and Mexico, while Puerto Rico faces Trinidad & Tobago in quarterfinals tomorrow.

Gavin Schmitt was the best scorer for Canada with 19 points and Frederic Winters contributed with 9. Puerto Rico had in Juan Figueroa their best performer with 10 points.

“Two weeks ago we qualified to the World League so we are highly motivated and it was nice to win a match in three sets” said Frederic Winters, Canadian captain.

Victor Rivera, captain of Puerto Rico was sincere saying “it is no excuse that we´re missing some players, besides that Canada´s blocking was effective, we aren’t able to maintain our focus on the game and the plain truth is that they are better now”.

Coach for Canada, Glenn Hoag indicated “I’m happy for the win, there is still a lot to come for both teams and I think that as long as we’re able to stay disciplined and patient we´ll see good results.”

“Canada distributed their game very well and their serves along with their blocks were very good. I don’t consider that we´re out of shape, but we do make a lot of mistakes which we’re trying to resolve” said Argentinean coach for Puerto Rico, Carlos Cardona.