United States move to quarterfinals at U21 event
 

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, July 31, 2014 – United States defeated Mexico 3-1 (25-18, 25-21, 17-25, 25-11) to capture second place in Pool C and a berth in the quarterfinals of the NORCECA U21 Men’s Continental Championship at Palacio de los Deportes on Thursday.

Storm Faagata-Tufuga and Brenden Sander registered 20 and 15 points, respectively, to lead the offensive charts of the winners. George Pinnerar contributed 9 points in the victory.

Alan Martinez and Ivan Molano were the best Mexican scorers with 13 and 10 points, respectively.

The Americans dominated their opponents in all the offensive categories and made 30 unforced errors to 33 by the losers. The winners led in attacks (43-36), blocks (11-7) and serving aces (5-2).

Quotes

Sorem Kindem, United States’ Captain: "We played well, with great energy and attitude. The set we lost helped us to focus more in the next one. We have a good level and that gives us confidence."

Daniel Friend, United States’ Coach: "I'm excited for today's victory. Mexico had beaten us in the last two tournaments, one in NORCECA and two years ago in a World Championship, and this time we won playing much better than yesterday. I am proud of my team."

Allan Martinez, Mexico’s Captain: "We have a bad taste in our mouths. We had a big goal that was not achieved. Two years ago we had the World Championship in Mexico and we prepared during one year. We hope to do it again. We have a rivalry, as a 'classic', with the United States and this time they won".

Victor Porras, Mexico’s Coach: "There is much work to do, as there are good things to try to rescue and try to prepare well."