IRAPUATO, Mexico, August 24, 2024. – Puerto Rico, in a nearly two-hour match and after falling in five sets last night against the Dominican Republic, prevailed 3-2 (16-25, 25-16, 25-16, 16-25, 15-10) over Canada, advancing to the fifth-place match of the XXI Women’s Pan American Volleyball Cup.
In a very even match-up in all aspects, Puerto Rico gained a slight advantage in attacks, 57-54, especially during moments when Canada was putting pressure when they reached halfway in each set. They managed to pull ahead by playing through the middle of the net with Neira Ortiz and through the corners with opposite hitter Dariana Hollingsworth.
Canada led in blocking 13-12, while Puerto Rico led in service aces 5-2; both teams committed 23 unforced errors.
For Puerto Rico, Dariana Hollingsworth scored 21 points, Neira Ortiz added 19 points, and Diana Reyes contributed 13 points. For Canada, Emma Boyd scored 15 points and Nyadholi Thokboum added 13.
On Sunday, Puerto Rico will face the winner between Mexico and Chile, while Canada will play for seventh place against the loser.
Shara Venegas, captain of Puerto Rico: “We are prepared for this type of scenario. It has been a tough, intense tournament with many games and little rest, which speaks to how well we are doing physically. I am happy and proud of the work Puerto Rico has done, as we have performed at a high level, and we will continue to give it our all until the end.”
Neira Ortiz, middle blocker of Puerto Rico: “We started the match behind; it’s not easy to play for these positions, but we always have to finish strong. We try to stay positive and fill ourselves with good energy, which is what we’ve tried to do throughout the tournament. I think our performance has had many ups and downs, but as long as we finish well, play hard, with a positive mindset and that fighting spirit, I’ll be happy.”
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