Poland Edge Canada in a tie-break win

Poland endured a tough tie-break encounter with Canada 3-2 (25-18, 17-25, 25-21, 18-25, 15-9) to record a victory on opening day at the Men’s World Olympic Qualification Tournament at Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium on Saturday.

Poland coach Stephane Antiga: “This was a very important victory. We knew Canada would play better than last year. We studied the video. Their opposite was good on serves and spikes. We really had to play well to win. I’m happy about the character of my players. That is very important in this kind of tournament.”

Poland captain Michal Kubiak: “We are extremely happy to win the first match and get closer to our dream. We did not play as good as expected, but we won. Victory is the most important thing.”

Canada coach Glenn Hoag: “Poland played better in the fifth set. They served and received better. I’m proud of the way my guys played. Gavin Schmitt is back from two surgeries and it was great to see him out on the court. I’m happy to have him back and hope he can play volleyball for many more years.”

Canada captain Rudy Verhoeff: “At the end of the day, Poland served and received better in the fifth set and this was the most important factor. Their serve pressure paid off. I’m happy with our resiliency but not satisfied with the result. We did get one point in this match, which is good.”