FIVB Challenger Cup: Puerto Rico ousts Kenya to advance to semis

Puerto Rico celebrates after a win over Kenya in the FIVB Challenger Cup at Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila. –VOLLEYBALL WORLD

MANILA, Philippines — Grace Lopez lifted Puerto Rico to the semifinal of the FIVB Women’s Volleyball Challenger Cup after ousting Kenya, 25-20, 25-19, 27-25, on Thursday at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Lopez, the 18-year-old opposite spiker, showed maturity beyond years for the Puerto Ricans to live another day in the four-day qualifier for next year’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL).

She led the charge with 19 points built on 18 attacks and an ace to advance to the knockout semifinal on Saturday against the winner between Sweden and Belgium scheduled on Thursday evening 

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“It’s really good. We had a good start and I hope [on Saturday] we win,” Lopez said. “Before the game, we talked that we have to start strong, put almost every serve in and I think that’s the thing that help us win.”

The young Puerto Rican, who has been enjoying her stay in Manila so far, believes that the trust of her teammates and coaches fuels her to play better for her country and step up even at a young age.

“It feels good. I’ve been working with that [trust] like my whole life, with my parents, the coaches and you know, the discipline and I think that’s what helps me play good,” Lopez said. 

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Puerto Rico blew a 24-21 match point advantage in the third set after committing crucial errors that allowed Kenya to save three match points and tie the game at 24-all. Stephanie Rivera came to the rescue to bring back the Puerto Ricans on top but Pamella Adhiambo Owino tied the frame with a down-the-line kill. 

Rivera drilled back-to-back hits to complete the straight-set win to finish with nine points. Diana Reyes chipped in 10 points including two aces, as setter Wilmarie Rivera tossed 25 excellent sets on top of six points off three aces, two attacks, and a block.

Kenya’s Challenger Cup stint ended up with just a game as it is already eliminated from contention.

Owino was the lone bright spot with 22 points, followed by Belinda Nanjala Barasa, who added nine points.