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CORDOBA, Mexico, October 7, 2015 - Cuba defeated Mexico in
straight sets and became the second team that advanced to the
semifinals at the Norceca Men's Continental Championship.
Scores were 25-18, 25-17 and 25-14. Osmany Uriarte scored 13
points for Cuba while Rolando Cepeda notched 9. For Mexico, Ivan
Marquez finished with 5. Cuba overcame Mexico in blocks 11-2 and
Mexico worked hard with their service and finished 3-2. However,
Ricardo Calvo aced twice for the Caribbean team that became part
of the Top Four.
"We expected a tough match. It had a rough start, I felt that my
players were a little bit tense, but the tension calmed down. We
put pression on the serve and blocked very well. After that we
went point by point, but we still have work to do with our
reception, "said Cuban coach Rodolfo Sanchez.
"Congratulations to Cuba. It was a good result for them. We did
not expect to lose in these conditions. I think we would give
more battle against them. We played against a young team, but
with World Championships and World League experience. We played
well in the first two sets, but I saw a that my team declined at
the end," said Roberto Vilches, Mexico coach.
"We are happy for this victory. We came to win. Mexico also came
out to win this match, but we maintain ourselves focused and
kept concentrated to get the rhythm of competition and could
solve the match,"said Cuban captain Rolando Cepeda.
"Congratulations to Cuba, a team with history. A strong squad.
Their blocking game was their main weapon. We could not dodge
their attack and could not break their blocks either. But we
still have the enthusiasm to advance to the semifinals tomorrow,
"emphasized Mexican captain Jorge Barajas. |
