Cuba undefeated after victory over USA

CIUDAD JUAREZ, Mexico, July 14, 2012 – Cuba remained undefeated in three outings in Pool A following their 3-1 (25-18, 25-23, 18-25, 25-19) victory over United States in the XI Women’s Pan American Cup on Saturday. The Americans dropped to a 2-1 win-loss record.

Ana Cleger’s 17 points, including five blocks, led Cuba. She was followed by Wilma Salas with 13 and Gyselle Silva and Yanelis Santos with 12 apiece.  USA’s Kristin Richards had a match-high 20 points and Nicole Fawcett came off the bench to collect 15.

“We executed all the plays as planned and it was a good show from both teams,” Cuba’s Yusidey Silie said. “I am retiring after this competition but I am here to help my young teammates.”

“I am very happy that our younger players had their first chance to play such a high level team as Cuba,” USA’s Stacy Sykora said. “Volleyball is a game of mistakes and today Cuba played better than us.”

“The matches between USA and Cuba create always great expectations,” Cuba’s Juan Carlos Gala said. “USA have many young players but they are a good team. Our serve and reception worked well and that was the difference.”

“Cuba won the battle of serve and reception,” USA’s Reed Sunahara said. “We have to learn from our mistakes. Cuba is a team with a lot of tradition.”