Gordon Perrin spikes as three Cubans are ready in block.
Tampere, Finland, July 1, 2016 – Canada is still unbeaten in FIVB Volleyball World League Group 2 winning Cuba in five-setter 3-2 (24-26, 25-21, 19-25, 25-16, 15-13) as Gordon Perrin was the top scorer for the winning team with 28 points.
In a five set thriller, Perrin was the difference as his haul of 28 points allowed Canada to come out on top, though Abrahan Gavilan responded with 20 points with Cuba, though it was in vain, as they fell short.
Canada started the first set convincingly leading 12-7, but Cuba came back and tied the set at 14-14. The fight between the sides continued with slim margins until the strong attacks of the Cuban spikers wrapped up the set 26-24.
Canada made a comeback in set two leading 8-4 and 16-14 at the technical timeouts. Young Cubans did not give up and the set was still open at 18-18. Finally the set turned to Canada when Cuban captain Rolando Cepeda served to the net giving Canada a set ball and Perrin hit a service ace sealing the set 25-21 to Canada.
Set three was excellent volleyball from both teams and the Finnish crowd loved it. Cuba dominated the set with powerful serves and strong attacks when Canada was struggling with their reception. Cuba took the set in convincing fashion 25-19.
Canada had a tremendous start to set four taking rapidly 6-0 lead and they maintained their high level through the whole set with Perrin attack the net with accuracy as Canada closed out the set 25-16.
The tiebreak was a tough fight as both teams showed excellent volleyball. Cuba had to take a timeout when Canada was leading 9-7. It helped and Cuba took next four points. Canada dominated the end of the set closing it 15-13 with a great three-man block.