First victory for Dominican Republic

ANKARA, Turkey, August 8, 2014 – Dominican Republic edged hosts Turkey 3-2 (23-25, 19-25, 25-22, 25-22, 15-9) for their first victory of the year in Group I of the FIVB World Grand Prix on Friday.

Candida Arias had her best ever production at international level with 19 points, including four blocks, to led the winners. Bethania De la Cruz followed with 16 while Gina Mamrbu, Annerys Vargas and Prisilla Rivera added 14, 12 and 11 points, respectively.

In Sao Paulo, Brazil, USA came from behind to score a 3-1 (22-25, 25-19, 25-18, 25-17) victory over Russia. USA opposite Kelly Murphy topped all scorers with 20 points, but middle blockers played a key role in the win as Foluke Akinradewo and Rachael Adams added 16 and 14, respectively. Russian opposite Nataliya Goncharova scored 16 points for her side.

In Group 2, Puerto Rico continued their successful run with a 3-2 (23-25, 20-25, 25-21, 25-22, 15-13) victory over hosts Netherlands. Karina Ocasio and Aury Cruz registered 24 and 21 points, respectively, as the winners improved to a 6-1 (16 points) win-loss record.

Also in Group 2 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Cuba defeated Canada 3-0 (27-25, 25-18, 25-22) in a match that pitted NORCECA teams. Melissa Vargas led Cuba with 14 points followed by Alena Orta and Regla Gracia with 11 apiece. Kyla Richey and Lucille Charuk each had 10 points for Canada.