Canada wins fantastic match over United States

GUADALAJARA, Mexico, October 25, 2011 – Canada won a sensational five-set duel against United States (21-25, 25-23, 37-39, 35-33, 15-12) to claim its first triumph in Pool B of the men’s volleyball tournament at the Pan American Games Guadalajara 2011. Both teams have now a 1-1 win-loss record.

Spencer Leiske of Canada had a match-high 36 points while Tyler Santoni contributed 18 points including 8 blocks. Jacob Kilpatrick and Reid Halpenny notched 11 and 10 respectively. Tony Ciarelli was the best for USA with 29 points followed by Evan Patak, Nicholas Vogel and Eric Vance with 16, 14 and 13 points.

Canada won the battle at the net with 22 blocks to 19 of USA and had a 3-0 margin in service aces.

Louis Pierre Mainville (Captain of Canada): “The US played a great game; we played a great game too. We have two months together and this was a good result. We came back, we are happy for the result, and at the same time we are ready for another great match tomorrow.”

Evan Patak (Captain of USA): “Obviously it was a very close match, leading in two sets and going to extra innings is really frustrating for me and the guys. We were so close and had opportunities to seal victory. Canada played pretty well. I think we have to analyze the situation and handle as a benefit for us. We have to leave this behind, it is over, but at the same time we have to learn from our mistakes.”

Vincent Pichette (Coach of Canada): “We had some mental errors. I just told the guys to play the point and be focused, keep the objective and perspective. Tonight Kevin (Miller) did a great job the fourth set.  It was a very tough challenge; this is our first experience internationally.”

John Speraw (Coach of USA): “Both teams are inexperienced and young. There are a lot of guys without international experience. I think it is hard for our team. We are disappointed for the loss but it was nice to see our guys trying to win.”