NOGALES, Sonora, June 17, 2022.- Mexico stormed by Costa Rica 3-0 (25-14, 25-11, 25-14) on day one of the NORCECA Women’s Final Four Qualification Tournament on Friday in Nogales, Sonora.
Mexico overwhelmed Costa Rica leading with huge scores in all three sets, with every player having time on court.
The host enjoyed a 38-22 margin in attacks, while outblocking Costa Rica 8-1 and leading 3-0 in serves. Mexico committed 16 unforced errors and Costa Rica a total of 26.
Middle blocker and captain Jocelyn Urias led Mexico with 11 points on 7 kills and 3 blocks; middle blocker Karina Flores Gamez and outside hitter Grecia Castro contributed with 7 and 6 points respectively.
Costa Rica’s top scorer was outside hitter Tamara Espinoza with 8 points all on kills.
On day two of the event, Costa Rica (0-1) faces Puerto Rico (0-1) and Mexico (1-0) will play Cuba (1-0).
Jocelyn Urías, Captain of Mexico: “Everything worked well for us, our communication was perfect. Our team has players who are playing in the United States, and they are growing. We are very happy with today’s performance. We are prepared to face a strong Cuban team tomorrow; our goal is to win every match”.
Rafael Petry, Head Coach of Mexico: “It was a good debut; we are happy for the victory. Everyone had the opportunity to give the first step in the competition. I liked that my team was calm, with good transitions in the first two sets. We are going to study Cuba tonight because we need our eyes always looking ahead”.
Marcela Araya, Captain of Costa Rica: “We did a good effort against a great opponent. We lacked consistency, on occasions we put pressure and a first match is always difficult, we will improve our level with each match. For our next rival we must focus on our strengths, Puerto Rico is a young team”.
Pablo Acuña, Head Coach of Costa Rica: “Some players were too shy and lacked confidence which affected us in the beginning; being down with such a huge margin in the scores is not the best beginning for any team. In some frames we showed we can compete, but our shyness forced us to commit errors which we usually don’t. To face Puerto Rico tomorrow we need to improve in confidence to have good defense and attacking, our serves will help us”.
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