Puerto Rico takes bronze in a thrilling match

TIJUANA, Mexico, May 5, 2012 – World-ranked No. 19 Puerto Rico pulled out a 3-2 (25-20, 20-25, 25-14, 23-25, 15-11) victory over No. 22 Canada in the bronze medal match of the NORCECA Women’s Olympic Qualification Tournament on Saturday.

Sarai Alvarez and Aury Cruz were the main offensive contributors to the victory with 29 and 24 points respectively while Jetzabel Del Valle chipped in 14. Canada’s Sarah Pavan finished the match with a tournament-high 32 points while Marisa Field tallied 12.

“It was a well fought match and Canada increased their level of play,” Puerto Rico’s Vilmarie Mojica said. “We had some good rallies and other bad streaks, so many ups and downs but we are happy with the victory.”

“Mentally it was a tough match to play without chances of reaching the main objective of the tournament,” Canada’s Tammy Mahon said. “Congratulations to Tijuana for another well organized event.”

“Both teams played good volleyball and put a good show which was somehow difficult for both teams given the situation,” Puerto Rico’s David Aleman said.

“It was a good performance from both teams and I am really proud of my team,” Canada’s coach Arnd Ludwig said. “Puerto Rico played a little better than us at the end.”