Panama with solid straight set win over Costa Rica

 

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, October 5, 2019.- Panama got a solid straight set win 3-0 (25-23, 25-19, 25-21) over Costa Rica on Saturday at the AFECAVOL U21 Central American Championship being held in FESAVOL Gymnasium of San Salvador, El Salvador.

 

Panama executed their strategy just right for an important win earning five points for an overall 17 ranking points and a 3-2 record, while Costa Rica has the same 3-2 record with 14 points putting tension in the battle for medals. Panama hasn’t been reached the AFECAVOL U21 podium since 2001 when they won the gold medal.

 

Panama led 44-30 in kills and Costa Rica in blocks with 7-5 margin. Both scored 2 points on aces and finished with 24 unforced errors.

 

Denzel Arboine topped Panama´s hitters with 18 points all on kills, José Vasquez chipped in with 13 points also in kills and middle blocker David Ng contributed with 10 points on 5 kills, 4 blocks and one ace. Costa Rican outside hitter Dowshel Mc Donald led all scorers with 21 points on 18 kills, 2 blocks and one ace.

 

Panama (3-2) will close the competition facing Guatemala (2-2) and Costa Rica (3-2) against El Salvador (3-1).

 

Daniel Stapf, setter of Panama: “We were aware of how difficult our opponent was. On our way to come to the court we were already concentrated in coming out strong to win and we now we are celebrating it”.

 

Javier Polo, Head Coach of Panama: “This was an important victory for Panama; we played with heart, with strength, with 100% positive attitude. This 3-0 is crucial; tomorrow will also be difficult and we must prepare ourselves mentally”.

 

Dowshel Mc Donald, leading scorer: “Panama had a great game; we fought every point but we lacked attitude and energy. This wasn’t the result we expected but we are still in the fight”.