Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, July 21, 2010 - Costa Rica and Trinidad & Tobago earned the final two spots in the semifinals of the women’s Volleyball tournament at the Central American and Caribbean Games following their victories over Guatemala and Mexico on Wednesday.

Costa Rica beat Guatemala in straight sets and will play Puerto Rico in Thursday’s semifinals, while Trinidad & Tobago had to come from behind to prevail against Mexico and now will meet two-time defending champions the Dominican Republic.
Thursday will also see the battle for 5-8 positions with Nicaragua meeting Guatemala and Barbados facing Mexico.

Costa Rica v Guatemala

Costa Rica advanced to the semifinals by defeating Guatemala in straight sets (25-20, 25-9, 25-17). The Costa Ricans, who next meet hosts Puerto Rico in Thursday’s semifinal round, had the advantage in blocks (9-4) and serving aces (7-3). Verania Willis led Costa Rica with 13 points while Karen Cope added 11 including three blocks. Angela Willis and Mariela Quesada each charted seven points for the win.

“Our first goal was to finish second in our pool and the next one was to enter the semifinals,” Costa Rica's Verania Willis said. “Now the ultimate objective is to win one of the medals.”

Trinidad & Tobago v Mexico

Trinidad & Tobago overcame Mexico 3-1 (20-25, 25-21, 25-22, 25-20) and claimed the last remaining berth in the semifinal round. The Trinidadians, who next play against the Dominican Republic, out-blocked their opponents 8-5 and had the edge in serving aces 7-5. Krystle Esdelle led the winners with 21 points, all via spikes, and Sinead Jack contributed 19 points, including six blocks. Kelly-Anne Billingy registered 18. Mexican Samantha Bricio led the defeated side with 21 tallies and Andrea Rangel added 11.

“My team is feeling extremely happy and we are building momentum,” Esdelle said. “We reduced the errors and kept in mind our goal of fight, fight and fight.”