USA easily defeated Costa Rica 

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil, July 14, 2007.- USA got an easy 3-0 (25-9, 25-19 y 25-12) over Costa Rica in the opening of the women’s tournament of the XV Pan American Games Rio 2007.

 

The Americans relied on its powerful game at the net and displayed an explosive attack with great defense that tied-up their rivals’ game.

 

“We are going to try to advance in the preliminary round and then go after a medal,” commented Captain Danielle Scott. “But the most important thing for our team is the experience to get by our younger players in such strong competition.”

 

The pair of middle blocker Tayyiba Haneef-Park and Scott took advantage of their size and scored 14 and 13 points respectively. Foluke Akinradewo and Cynthia Barboza each added 10 points.

 

Karen Cope led Costa Rica with 11 points and was followed by Captain Verania Willis with 10.