Tokyo, Japan, September 21, 2015 –
Canada staged a straight-set win (25-18, 25-22, 25-23) against Venezuela in the third round of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Cup at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium on Monday.
Gavin Schmitt bested all scorers with 16 points to emerge as the Most Impressive Player. John Gordon Perrin posted 11 points, fulfilling both offensive and defensive duties.
Canada employed their blocking to full advantage in the first set. Setter Tyler Sanders made full use of his hitters from all angles. Some lethal serves later, Canada latched to a 16-10 lead at the second technical timeout.
Schmitt initiated powerful attacks from the flank to impose Canada’s advantage on the frontline. Nicholas Hoag finished off the first set, 25-18, with a down-the-line winner.
In the second set, Venezuela stepped up on their reception to activate their offence. Captain Kervin Pinerua and Wilner Rivas unleashed their artillery from the wing, while Jonathan Quijada stood by the net.
Canada took the challenge well with a good counterattack. Perrin posted good reception and continued to respond well in transition plays. They won the second set, 25-22.
Coach Glen Hoag mostly stuck to his starters in the third set, with Perrin and Schmitt setting off some lethal spikes.
Venezuela ran a much tighter offence, with setter Angel Melean successfully getting the ball to his hitters, but Canada held on to a better endgame .
Schmitt swung from the wing to send down a slammer, finishing off the third set, 25-23, for Canada’s third win the competition.