Canada will not be in the final of the Norceca Continental Women’s Volleyball Championship.
In a heated PEPS, the Canadians lost in four sets, 25-27, 22-25, 25-23 and 20-25, to the Dominican Republic, ranked No. 10 in the world. A string of eight unanswered points from the Dominicans in the final set brought down Canada, who were unable to overcome this steep slope.
“Our opponents served very well and we had a significant drop in passing during this sequence,” explained head coach Shannon Winzer. Under these circumstances we need to find a way to compensate for and minimize passing errors. The girls didn’t give up, but we dug ourselves a big hole.”
With her powerful serve, Bethania De La Cruz scored seven points without conceding a goal.
Winzer is confident Canada will come back strong in the bronze medal game against Cuba today at 3 p.m. “It’s not the result we wanted and it’s disappointing, but the girls showed in the National League that they can bounce back after heavy defeats. With a win we would have moved closer to the Republic in the Olympic qualification rankings, but there is still a long way to go and the decision will be made next June in the National League.
The Dominicans are ahead for the second time this year after a first win in five rounds.
In addition to the defeat, Canada lost the services of its captain Alexa Gray in the third set.
In the race for Olympic qualification, Canada lost 11 points in its battle with the Republic.
Patience is rewarded
Vicky Savard, who was not present in the two parts of the preliminary round against Mexico and Puerto Rico, was thrown into the fray in the first set with a score of 24-23 in favor of the Republic, to the great joy of those present close to him. in the stands. She created equality.
“When I first walked in I thought my heart was coming out of my body. My heart rate must have been 190 per minute. The atmosphere was beyond electric. It was a tough battle, but we lacked consistency in serving and receiving. Despite the defeat, we took a step forward. After such a defeat it would be a joy if we won bronze.”
Winzer wanted to see Savard’s reaction when he plunged them into the fray at such a crucial moment. “I wanted to pressure test Vicky and he did a really good job. I’m proud of her.”
Savard really wanted to break the ice. “I couldn’t wait for my turn,” she admitted, “but I knew I would get my chance. I stayed calm. We are working on Olympic qualification. I am ready to take on all roles. The team first. Whether I’m there to bring energy to the bench, to serve, or anything else, it’s the same Vicky you’ll see.