Diaris Perez helps Cuba to shake off Mexico in five tough sets

Fecha de publicación:

17 September 2015

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Cuba emerged victorious after five sets over Mexico 3-2 (20-25, 25-23, 26-24, 27-29, 15-10) at their fourth game at FIVB Women’s U20 World Championship, for Pool G in Maunabo. Cuba had to work all the way over a willing side of Mexico, which presented some real fight.

Cuba came confident with strong blocks after losing the first set. Although Mexico struggled led by captain Fernanda Bañuelos, gradually lost concentration by the third chapter giving Cuba the opportunity to step ahead in the last two sets.

The match was also a serving battle, which Cuba won with 15 aces over the 13 unveiled by the Mexican girls. The Cubans also harvested 15 points via stuff blocks.

Cuban captain Diaris Perez placed above all scorers with 27 points, supported by teammate Claudia Hernandez with 15 hits. For Mexico, the flag was carried by the 22 points of Maria Fernanda Rodriguez, while captain Bañuelos trailed her with 16.

While for Cuban coach Robinson the key was a clear improvement on blocking and serving, captain Diaris Pérez went for a more emotional reason to the win, as she underlined the will of her side. As for Mexico, coach Leon said his girls are evolving.

Diaris Perez, Cuba Captain: “Our team spirit and willingness sent us further. We try to follow our dream throughout our country's sports history, that is our major inspiration.”

Wilfredo Robinson, Cuba coach: “We improved our blocking and service after the first set. That was our way to save the game.”

Fernanda Bañuelos, Mexico captain: “The match was hard for us. We tried to put our hearts in every set even though we struggled.”

Luis León, Mexico coach: “Our service worked at the beginning. After the second set, we failed at that area and that’s the reason we lost the game. Even though, I can see girls have evolved from each game.”

France optimistic, Cuba still waiting for a victory

Trillon, said that in the match against Cuba he could rotate his players to make all had chances to get on the court.

“I wanted to close the game with some of our younger players so they had enough chance to play and to be on the court ,” said Trillon.

About their next opponent, Poland, Luka Basic, captain of France stated: “we expect to have a great match against our next rival. We played at the European qualifier, so we must prepare well against them”

The Cuban team did not declare any statements after the match.