CANADA wasted no time taking down another powerhouse in Germany, 25-19, 25-18, 25-21, to remain unscathed in the 2024 Volleyball Men’s Nations League (VNL) Manila leg on Thursday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
For the second straight match, Stephen Maar and Arthur Szwarc ran the show for the streaking Canadians with 15-point performances apiece. They bolstered their bid for a VNL quarterfinals spot at 6-4 and fifth place.
READ: Canada edges VNL crowd darling Japan in five-set thriller
Jet lag and time difference haven't been problems for Canada in their third straight trip to Manila. In fact, Maar bared how they thrive under ‘uncomfortable circumstances’ such as early-morning matches.
That was very much evident today, as it took them just three quick sets to send the Germans crashing following their statement victory over reigning Olympic gold medalists France.
“It’s our favorite thing to do. When it’s uncomfortable to play early in the morning, it’s our favorite,” said Maar.
“I think we did a good job in serving and passing today. Our team had pretty flawless volleyball. Germany gave some good fight in the end and I think we handled it really well, so I’m happy for the team.”
The European side, on the other hand, had its VNL playoffs bid dented with its sixth loss in ten preliminary matches, dropping it to 11th place — three spots shy of a top eight finish to advance to the finals in Poland.
Moritz Karlitzek paced the Germans with 13 points on 12 attacks and one ace in their sorry loss.
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