First victory for Dominican Republic after an amazing comeback
Tucuman, Argentina, June, 4, 2016 - Bethania De La Cruz saved an almost sealed match against Argentina with an incredible strike to earn the Dominican Republic’s first victory in the 2016 FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix, 3-2 (22-25, 25-16, 25-15, 23-25, 16-14). The Dominican captain scored 25 points and completed a magical night in Tucuman.
Argentina entered the match against the Dominican Republic having lost four of the two teams previous six meetings at major tournaments, and the Dominican Republic was hungry was a win after losing to Bulgaria in their opening 2016 World Grand Prix match.
Young Sol Piccolo knew it wasn't all about hitting hard, so she pushed Argentina to lead the score with good defence and an intelligent attack. Brayelin Martinez converted every ball in point, but the Dominicans continued to lag and Lazcano finished the game, 25-22.
The second set was completely different, with the away team serving well from Gina Altagracia Mambru Casilla’s hands and Argentina stuck in reception. Carla Castiglione tried to equilibrate with the same recipe, but outside hitters De La Cruz and Martinez made it very simple for Dominican Republic to tie, 25-16.
Tatiana Soledad Rizzo great defence wasn't enough for Argentina to win because the pair Martinez-De La Cruz not only damaged at the net but also from service. The home team committed many mistakes and Eve Lisvel didn't fail to give Dominican Republic the third set, 25-15.
A renewed Argentina played the fourth set focused on the reception and clear in attack with Sosa and Lazcano, Orduna's team then took the lead. Both teams did it well and Martinez continued causing problems for the home team, nevertheless, Carla Castiglione was important in the final track to help Argentina to tie the game, 25-23.
Related information:In the last episode, Argentina had a good beginning with an awesome Piccolo and even got a four point lead in the final stages. However, De La Cruz made her own personal show and spiked six consecutive balls to take the lead 14-12. Even Argentina tied one more time, De La Cruz smashed the ball in the court and ended the game, 16-14.