Dominicans return to the winning path against Cuba

LIMA, Peru, September 21, 2016 – Two-time defending champions Dominican Republic returned to the right track with a straight-set 3-0 (25-21, 25-18, 25-19) victory over Cuba in the third day of actions at the U23 Women’s Volleyball Pan American Cup by Gatorade at Manuel Bonilla Coliseum of Miraflores.

One day after losing to Argentina, the Dominicans played with more intensity and improved all facets of their game. They now have a 2-1 win-loss record while Cuba fell to 1-2.

The Dominicans outblocked Cuba 12-2 and made only 13 unforced errors to 31 by the Cubans, who dominated in attacks 37-30 and in aces 6-2.

Brayelin Martinez led the winners with 16 points, including four blocks and one ace, followed by Natalia Martinez who finished with 9 points, all in attacks, despite starting only in the third set. Jineiry Martinez contributed 7 points, including five blocks, in the victory.

Dalila Palma and Diaris Pérez finished with 10 points apiece for Cuba, while Yelennis Diaz had eight points.

Wagner Pacheco, coach of Dominican Republic: “In today’s match we played very well because it was very important in our path to the world championship. We started very strong. The match against Costa Rica will allow us to rest some important players and to focus on the match against Peru on Friday.”

Brayelin Martinez, captain of Dominican Republic: “It was a very good match. Cuba is always a strong rival and different to the match against Argentina we followed closely the instructions of our coach. We kept a good rhythm of our game. I am confident of my team and I know we will earn the ticket to the world championship.”

Roberto Garcia, coach of Cuba: “I think we continue with the same problems of dominating the middle of the game and that led us to the defeat. But It was a well fought match and tomorrow we will go strong against Peru.”

Diaris Perez, captain of Cuba: “We started with a lot of rhythm, but we lacked the actions in our middle game. Our counterattacks were not effective either. However our game was relaxed and we will continue improving along with the competition.