Dominican Republic defeats Spain to start friendly series 

ALBACETE, Spain, June 5, 2007.- The Dominican Republic Women’s National Team defeated its counterpart from Spain (23-25, 25-20, 19-25 and 24-26) in the first of four friendly matches between the two squads.

The physical power and attacking efficiency of the Dominicans, led by Cindy Rondon and Nuris Arias, were the key factors for the victory.

The Dominican Republic came from behind (21-23) to take the first set, and the Spaniards evened the match relying on the serves of Sara Perez. The third set was one-sided for the visiting side which showed to have more cold blood in the final stages of the fourth.

The second match is today in Almansa and the series concludes with two more contests in Guadalajara on June 7 and 9.

The starting line-ups were the following:

Spain: Elena García, Marisa Fernández, Sara Pérez, Amaranta Fernández, Diana Sánchez Sara González and Esther Rodríguez (líbero). Also played Patricia Aranda, Helia González and Sara Sarmiento.

Dominican Republic: Rosalin Angeles, Nuris Arias, Cindy Rondon, Kenia Moreta, Sidalka Nunez, Bethania de la Cruz and Carmen Casso (líbero). Also played Brenda Castillo.