Antigua and Barbuda Senior Men’s Volleyball team made their debut on the Pan-American stage on Tuesday evening, but it would not be the result that many at home hoped for as the men went under in straight sets to Cuba in their Group A encounter in Leon, Guanajuanto, Mexico.
Despite some valiant rallies, Cuba took the first set 25-19 setting the pace for an intense matchup between the Caribbean nations.
They seemed to turn up the tempo in the second set, winning, 25-10.
The victors meant business taking the third set, 25-17 to win the game three sets to zero (3-0) on day one of the tournament.
In the other results of the day, Guatemala fell to Colombia 3-0, Chile defeated Dominican Republic, 3-1, Canada defeated Puerto Rico 3-1, USA fell to Venezuela in straight sets and the home team, Mexico handed Suriname a 3-0thrashing.
The various teams are divided into three groups where they face everyone in their group.
Based on their group results they will move on to the next round.
The tournament is expected to end on August 31.
Antigua and Barbuda will face USA at 10 am (midday Antigua time) on Wednesday.
A day later they will battle Venezuela at the same time.
Even though they lost, this is a major milestone for Antigua and Barbuda volleyball. We’re on the international stage now, no turning back.
First Pan-Am Cup, first match, against one of the best in the hemisphere. The scoreline doesn’t matter as much as the fact we’re finally competing at this level.
Another defeat. Good showing guys. Better luck next time around
Tough start, but it’s just the opener. Antigua and Barbuda can bounce back in the next games!