Puerto Rico drops to 0-2 at U17 Pan American Cup in Guatemala

Puerto Rico’s Marcelo Hopgood Hernández (19) loads up for a spike against the United States during their match at the Boys’ U17 Pan American Cup in Guatemala City. The U.S. won, 3-0.

By THE STAR STAFF

Puerto Rico fell 0-3 (14-25, 23-25, 17-25) to the United States at the Boys’ U17 Pan American Cup in Guatemala City, Guatemala on Wednesday.

The island team showed moments of resilience -- particularly in the second set -- but lacked consistency of play when needed to halt the opponent’s momentum.

“We didn’t play our best match, but that’s part of the sport,” Team Puerto Rico libero Adrián Figueroa said.

The United States dominated the first set with an effective attack and solid net play. Puerto Rico responded better in the second set, keeping the score close and capitalizing on their opponent’s errors, although the Americans reasserted their game during the decisive points. In the third set, several unforced errors by Puerto Rico allowed the United States to take an early lead and control the remainder of the match.

In team statistics, the United States led in attacks (37-23), blocks (6-2), and serves (4-2). Puerto Rico committed 15 service errors, while the United States recorded 13.

Alejandro Guadalupe was Puerto Rico’s top scorer with 10 points, tying Logan Flores of the U.S. for the match high.

The United States improved to 2-0, while Puerto Rico fell to 0-2. Puerto Rico was to play Mexico on Thursday afternoon in the final round of Group B play.