Big win over Mexico keeps Canada in contention at Parapan Am Games

GUADALAJARA – Greg Stewart of Kamloops, B.C., scored 16 points to lead Canada to a 25-16, 25-17, 25-13 victory over Mexico on Tuesday in round robin action in men’s sitting volleyball at the Parapan American Games for athletes with a disability.

With the win, the Canadians improve to two wins and a loss and are tied in second place with Brazil behind the U.S., currently first at 3-0.

Jose Rebelo of St-Hubert, Que., added nine points including five on service aces and Mikael Bartholdy of Calgary six.

Earlier Tuesday the Canadians loss 26-17, 20-25, 25-15, 25-23 to the U.S. The Americans are one of Canada’s biggest rivals in sitting volleyball, and a team they know well, having recently spent 10 days training with them in preparation for the Games.

“Anytime we play the U.S. it’s a big match for us, and it took us awhile to get settled in,” said Canada’s head coach Ian Halliday.

Stewart and Larry Matthews of St. Albert, Alta., led Canada with 10 points each.

In other matches Tuesday, Brazil posted two wins beating both Colombia and Costa Rica in straight sets. Mexico started its day with a 26-24, 25-22, 26-24 win over Colombia.

Canada concludes round robin play Wednesday against Costa Rica and Brazil. The top four advance to the semifinals on Thursday with the medal matches set for Friday.

Canadian team roster: