Guatemala scores spectacular triumph, Costa Rica undefeated

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, December 4, 2012 - Guatemala defeated El Salvador 3-1 (25-15, 21-25, 25-23, 28-26) in a vibrant match of the second day of the XVII Women’s Central American Cup.

Meanwhile, Costa Rica beat Nicaragua 3-0 (25-22, 25-16, 25-17) to continue undefeated in two outings while Panama had to sweat before claiming a victory over Honduras 3-0 (25-22, 25-23, 25-17).

Great defensive plays, good blocking and tension made the match a big show won by Guatemala with Ruth Gomez providing in the blocking and attack with a total 24 points for the winners.

Diana Arias, captain of Guatemala, said: "El Salvador showed considerable resistance, but I think the blocks were fundamental to claim the win. The two teams were evenly matched, but the teamwork and the definition in key moments made the difference. "

Meanwhile, Adriana Flores, captain of El Salvador, said: "We are satisfied, it was a good game, nothing loose and I think we fail at key points. We suffered from lack of focus on the serves, because the game was very even when we failed to close."

"We still have three games and hope to show a better volleyball you saw today," Flores added.

Costa Rica got their second victory against Nicaragua, which also missed their main setter Lolette Rodriguez who left with a knee injury.

The Costa Rican team recovered from trailing the 16-12 going to the second technical time of the first set to win with their services and reception. Captain Verania Willis totaled 15 points while Karen Cope and Angela Willis each contributed 14 points.

For Nicaragua, Valeska Hernandez had nine points while Claudia Noguera, who finished the game as the setter, had seven.

On the other hand, Panama scored his first win by beating Honduras, who suffered their second defeat in as many games.

The Panamanian team had to battle especially to close the first two sets to stay with an important win, after losing their first game against El Salvador on Monday. Captain Hashlyn Cuero with 18 points was the best of Panama who trailed 18-16 in the first set but reacted on time.

Four Honduran players -Maria Barahona, Jennifer Torres, Tessa Flores and Dariana Flores- all finished with nine points but it was not enough because they lacked the punch in the final stretch of the sets.

Wednesday’s schedule

Panama v Costa Rica 3:00 p.m.

Guatemala v Nicaragua 5:00 p.m.

El Salvador v Honduras 7:00 p.m.