HAVANA, Cuba, August 20, 2005.- Canada defeated Costa Rica 3-0 confirming its participation in the 2006 FIVB Men’s World Championships. Although Costa Rica improved its reception, attack and serve, the level of the Canadians was far superior and did not have difficulties in obtaining its third triumph by score of 25-16, 25-15, 25-20.

 The Canadians utilized the match as rehearsal for its strategy anticipating the duel of Sunday against Cuba the last day of competition and definition of the first place of the event. Murray Grapentine with 13 points was the top scorer and Paul Duerden added 11 while Edwars Darnley was the most outstanding for Costa Rica with nine.

Stelio DeRocco,coach of Canada: “We accomplished our goal of qualifying for the Worlds ande ven the match was not a hard one, it was important for the preparation for the contest with Cuba this Sunday.”

Murray Grapentine, captain of Canada: “It was very important for us to win as also will be the match against Cuba. We had a game tactical plan to prepare us for tomorrow and it was important to execute it.” Alberto Travieso, coach of Costa Rica: “We have improved step by step because against Panama we had a lot of deficiencies, improved a little against Cuba and today we fought harder, but we still need a lot of work to do.”

Alexander Villegas, captain of Costa Rica: “We elevated the game, not the level but we were better for leaving with a good feeling and see if we can get a win tomorrow.”