VNL Week 3: Team Canada continues

Canada registered its second straight victory, defeating Germany 25-19, 25-18, 25-21 on Thursday, June 20, in Week 3 of the Men’s 2024 Volleyball Nations League (VNL) at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

The Canadians defeated the Germans after beating fan-favorite Japan 25-21, 20-25, 25-15, 20-25, 15-10 last Tuesday. They were too much to handle and defeated Germany in attacks, 46-31, and blocks, 8-3, to improve to 6-4 to strengthen their push for the last eight.

“I think we did a good job today with serving and passing,” Canadian 6-foot-4 outside hitter Stephen Maar said after the match in the mixed zone. “Our team played pretty flawless volleyball. In the end, Germany put up a good fight, but we handled it very well, so I’m for the team.”

But was Canada’s leading attacker with 14 kills and a block for 15 points, while middle blocker 6-foot-10 Arthur Szwarc recorded 11 attacks, two blocks and two service aces for 15 points and Eric Loeppky added 11 points.

“It’s our favorite activity. If it is uncomfortable to play early in the morning, it is our favorite,” Maar added when asked how they feel about playing in the morning. “This year we were able to prepare a little better and I think that really helps us start our week.”

World No. 9 Canada, which had already qualified for the Summer Olympics in Paris, built a 15-6 lead in the third set behind the dominance of Maar and Szwarc. Germany made a comeback at 11-15, but the Canadian frontline of Szwarc and Lucas Van Berkel was absolutely unstoppable.

Germany fell to a 4-6 record despite Moritz Karlitzek’s 13 points on 12 kills and service point.

Canada is trying to get to 3-0 in Manila’s match against Brazil on Friday at 3:00 PM, while Germany’s next match is against the United States of America on Saturday at 11:00 AM.

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