Canada crush Colombia for first win

CIUDAD JUAREZ, Mexico, July 14, 2012 - Canada claimed their first victory in the XI Women’s Pan American Cup after defeating Colombia 3-0 (25-12, 25-19, 25-13).

Sarah Pavan had a match-high 17 points and Jaimie Thibeault scored 11 for Canada, while Colombia’s Diana Arrechea finished with 11 points.

“This was our first win of the tournament. Colombia is a very good fighting team all the time. We kept our lead relying on minimizing errors and did a good job,” said Canadian captain Brittney Page.

Captain Lorena Zuleta said about Colombia: “This was a difficult match, but we made it more complicated because we could have played better.”

Meanwhile, Colombia’s coach Mauro Marasciulo remarked: “Canada is a very complete team with players like Sarah Pavan who can solve any problem. We had some limitations and lack of concentration in serving. They (Canada) have been playing and preparing since the Olympic qualifier and we have just a few days preparing for this tournament.”

For Canada’s coach Arnd Ludwig the key was in the pressure. “We put a lot of it and the fact of winning one set yesterday against Dominican Republic was a positive influence in the team. Everybody seemed to be more confident.”