Maar inspires Canada against Argentina

SAN JUAN, Argentina, June 2, 2018 - Stephen Maar delivered an intense performance as Canada gave their finals push a major boost with a hard-fought victory (25-22, 25-18, 24-26, 25-23) over Argentina in the Volleyball Nations League.

Maar blasted 16 points on offense and contributed further with two key blocks, but his role as the main source of his team’s spirit and fire was even more significant.

Midway through the third set the towering wing spiker was involved in an angry exchange with Argentina star Facundo Conte, after Maar glared through the net at his rival following a thundering winner. Conte reacted angrily and Cameron Bann got between them to help things eventually calm down.

The San Juan crowd naturally sided with the hometown player, but Maar was happy to play the villain as long as the final outcome was the one he wanted - namely Canada’s second straight win of the round.

He was assisted by Jason Derocco, whose offense pulled in 13 points as Canada continued its impressive form to climb to seventh in the VNL table.

Conte, with 23 total points, was the best performer for Argentina, who were unable to collect their long awaited first win of the campaign. Agustin Loser was an all-round threat and scored 15 but the home side could not find the consistency needed to get over the line.

Argentina’s final chance to get something out of their home stretch comes against Italy on Sunday, while Canada will seek to continue their victorious run against Iran.