2006 Men’s World Championship – Costa Rica
Costa Rica delight home fans with dramatic tiebreak victory (FIVB)
05/20/2005
San Jose, Costa Rica, May 20, 2005 - Costa Rica claimed the huge scalp of Guatemala in a thrilling five set battle featuring cutting edge Volleyball capping off the opening day of action at the 2006 Men’s World Championship first round tournament - Norceca Pool C in San Jose on Friday.

Costa Rica had the support of the local crowd to thank as they edged their way to an outstanding 25-18, 23-25, 25-16, 20-25, 15-13 victory in the second match of the day. The first match saw Honduras comfortably dispatch Nicaragua 25-21, 25-23, 25-19.

But it was the Costa Ricans who lit up the day with a stunning comeback which saw them erase a 5-8 deficit in the tie-breaker. With the combined offense of captain Alexander Villegas and Damley Hutchinson leading the way, several Guatemalan mistakes were pounced on by the host team, which ultimately led to the victory.
Pic: Damley Hutchinson on attack for Costa Rica
“Guatemala showed their fighting spirit and had a great match,” Alberto Travieso, the coach of Costa Rica, said. “I think our up and downs were because we haven’t had enough international preparation matches.”

“We could not keep the rhythm and that was the key in the crucial moments,” Guatemala coach Alvinzi Pelaez said. “Like the Costa Ricans, our lack of experience was evident. Now we have to look for consistency during the rest of the tournament.”

Meanwhile, Honduras’ enjoyable start was a complete turnaround from the previous time these two teams faced each other when they fought out a five set classic. The Hondurans were a well motivated team, with Felix Sabio leading the way with 18 points, and despite a couple of injuries during the match they maintained their rhythm and combined their strong offence with excellent blocking.

“In our region, men’s Volleyball is pretty equal and Nicaragua has a good team so I never expected a 3-0 outcome,” Honduras coach Rony Martinez said. “This is a jump start for us. I understand we need two victories to advance to the next round, so now we have one under our belts.”

“I feel very disappointed because I expected a better match,” Reynaldo Cerda, coach of Nicaragua, said. “I think we made mistakes at the worst moments.”

“I did not expect to win so fast,” Honduras captain Felix Sabio said. “I was mentally prepared for four or five sets, but we won easily and this is a good motivation for the next match against Guatemala.”

Saturday sees Honduras play Guatemala at 17.00 (local time) and Costa Rica play Nicaragua at 19.00.
(Released by FIVB)