BRIENVENGAT, Curacao July 18, 2026. – Team Barbados made a winning start to their 2026 CAZOVA MEN’S FINAL FOUR campaign with an impressive 3-0 victory over Trinidad and Tobago overcoming a determined challenge to claim a 29-27, 27-25, 25-23 win.
The Opening encounter of the tournament delivered exciting rallies and momentum swings, with Barbados showing composure in the crucial moments to secure the victory. After taking the opening set 29-27,they started the second set with confidence, but team TTO had a different approach moving into a quick 3-8 lead which turned to 5-11. However, the Bajans ease their way back to close the gaps until the score was 15-14. Barbados finally ended the set 27-25.
TTO had a similar start in the third set maintaining a 4-point lead until 8-11 when Barbados repeated the 2nd set approach soon reaching 16-16. A keen point for point fight continued until the end at 25-23.
Speaking after the victory, head coach of the winning team praised his team’s resilience.
Culpepper, BAR coach was relaxed having started the tournament with an important victory and praised his men for sticking to the game plan.
“We had a good match against TTO, and this victory was important to release the nerves. Finishing victorious against Bahamas tomorrow is also crucial, as that win would be our ticket to the finals.”
Oxley, captain of the winning team also reflected on the performance.
“One of the things we did today which I think we should do in our upcoming games, is to remain disciplined and focus on the tough situations.”
Despite the defeat, Coach Dickson was happy with the team performance, while expressing dissatisfaction with the outcome.
“The tournament is a short one and an intense one, so we hope to make a full turn around for the remainder of the tournament.”
Bushe, captain of TTO, felt they lost the momentum after starting both second and third sets positively.
“We have a short turn around time, so we’re hoping that we get good recovery tonight and that we regroup an play our true game in the remainder of the tournament, which is high skill level and energy.”
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