PARAMARIBO. Suriname, July 26, 2023.- Jamaican men won their last match in pool B in a hard fought five-set thriller 3-2 (25-16, 19-25, 21-25, 27-25,15-11) against rival Bahamas at the Anthony Nesty Sports Hall in Paramaribo.

The Jamaicans were able to take the first set, but Bahamas pushed back into the match and won set two and three. Both teams were equally matched. In the decisive fifth set Jamaica capitalized on the unforced errors made by Bahamas in the end of the match. Jamaica committed 32 unforced errors and Bahamas 37.

Outside hitter Ryck Webb led with a game high 27 points, joined by middle blocker Mark Blake and outside hitter Shavar James with 16 and 12 points respectively. For Bahamas outside hitter Kyle Wilson had splendid game with 17 points and teammate opposite Stuart Eugene contributed with 14 points.

Jamaica play host Suriname in the first quarter final and Bahamas will face Martinique.

Gatasheu Bonner, coach of Jamaica: “Our goal is to reach the next round. We didn’t have any rest. This type of tournament will show which team wants it the most. Because playing every day is a big task.”

Lloyd, Head Coach of Bahamas: “Coming into this game we knew that it will be a challenge. Obviously, our group of players manage to make some points, but slightly bit or errors cost us the game. With the win we could’ve advance to the semi-final.”