Mexicans celebrate after claiming their first victory in the tournament
Gurabo, Puerto Rico, September 19, 2015 – Mexico defeated Egypt 3-1 (25-20, 18-25, 25-21, 25-18) in the match for the 15th place at the FIVB Volleyball Women’s U20 World Championship on Saturday.
It was the first victory for the Mexican side after losing in their previous seven appearances in the 16-team competition. Egypt departed winless in eight outings.
Maria Rodriguez and Fernanda Bañuelos were the main offensive weapons of Mexico finishing with 15 points apiece while Kathya Garcia added 11 in the victory. Egypt’s Rahma Almohandes concluded with 14 in the losing effort.
The Mexican defence at the net proved to be the key for the outcome of the first set. Mexico led 8-4 and 16-9 at the technical time-outs. Mexico scored with six blocks and four aces to win 25-20.
Egypt claimed the second set 25-18. They trailed 8-7 at the first TTO but tied at 8-all and took control the rest of the way behind the spikes of Almohandes.
Mexico rallied from 8-4 and 16-13 deficits to claim the third set 25-21 with Rodriguez sparking the big reaction.
Once again Mexico came from behind in the fourth set 25-18 with Bañuelos leading the surge.