Barcelona, Spain, 2 June, 2017 - Spain gave the packed sports hall in Barcelona plenty of reasons to celebrate as the hosts of Pool A3 Group 3 of 2017 FIVB World League started the weekend with a 3-0 (25-23, 25-23, 25-21) victory over Mexico. Spaniards commemorated the return of World League to Spain after nine years with a convincing demonstration of offensive efficiency.
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Latest VideosFacebookTwitterInstagramMedia GuidesSpain took good use of the support from the filled-up stands at the Vall dHebron sports hall to demonstrate their intention to go for victory from the onset of the match. Angel Trinidad’s exquisite setting gave Spaniards a clear lead in the first set, and the points finished by Andres Villena ended up putting the period in favour for hosts. Despite a late surge by Mexicans, Jorge Miguel Azair’s men were outscored by inspired Spaniards. A powerful spike by Andres Villena after a thrilling rally placed the 25-23 and 1-0 in the scoreboard.
Mexico managed to shake off Spain’s inspired start to force a tight equaliser in the second set. Jorge Barajas’ spikes allowed the the visiting side to improve its performance and to put hosts in a tight spot in the period. The tie persisted, but when the set approached its resolution, Spain used the support from the stands to take the required lead to finish the set. 25-23 and Spain took the route to victory.
After a starting 5-1 for Spaniards, the set seemed to be in locals’ hands. However, Mexico fought and recovered their poise to put back the equaliser in the scoreboard 16-15. The period turned into a rollercoaster of points, and this situation benefited a more inspired Spanish team. The spikes by Andres Villena and Fran Ruiz gave hosts the edge they needed to overcome Mexico’s hopes to extend the clash. The local celebration was completed when a block by Andres Villena represented the 25-21 and the final 3-0.
