Dominican Republic keeps undefeated mark

HERMOSILLO, Mexico, August 23, 2022.- Dominican Republic kept their undefeated mark winning to Puerto Rico in straight sets 25-17, 25-11 and 25-18 in pool A of the Women’s Pan American Cup at the Sonora Arena of Hermosillo.

Dominican Republic has a 3-0 win-loss record, while Puerto Rico stands with 0-2.

Puerto Rico had good starts in all three sets, but Dominican Republic´s power stopped them with huge margins in attacks (42-27) and blocks (11-3); they also led 3-1 in aces. Dominican Republic scored on 19 Puerto Rican errors, allowing 15.

Three Dominicans finished with double-digits, opposite hitter Gaila Gonzalez leading with 15 points on 11 kills, three blocks and one ace, outside hitter Bethania De La Cruz with 12 points on nine kills and two aces, and outside hitter Yonkaira Peña with 10 points on 9 kills and one block.

Puerto Rico’s top scorers were opposite hitter Genesis Collazo (9), middle blocker Paola Rojas (7) and outside hitter Genesis Miranda (6).

Dominican Republic celebrates after defeating Puerto Rico

The Dominican Republic (3-0) has the day off on Wednesday and Puerto Rico (0-2) faces Peru (1-2).

Marcos Kwiek, head coach of Dominican Republic: “This is one mor step, we reached our goal, come out with the victory. We are aware the tournament isn’t easy, it’s long and we have practiced well, the players are focused. Puerto Rico has a good level of play, and they are used to playing with us, that’s why the close scores at the beginning of the sets, but we kept our concentration”.

Héctor Soto, head coach of Puerto Rico: “The inconsistency of our offense didn’t allow a good performance, it didn’t reach the level required at this competing level. We brought young talented players to give them the opportunity to gain experience at an international level. Of the things we are doing well is limiting our errors and receiving”.

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