Canada strikes again, sweeps Germany in VNL

Canada’s Stephen Maar powers through the block of two German players during the 2024 Men’s Volleyball Nations League at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

DISPLAYING such power and tenacity, Canada booked its second straight triumph after dismantling Germany, 25-19, 25-18, 25-21, on Thursday in the 2024 Men's Volleyball Nations League (VNL) Week 3 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. The Canadians, after beating fan-favorite Japan, 25-21, 20-25, 25-15, 20-25, 15-10, in last Tuesday's opener, were too much at all fronts outscoring the Germans in attacks, 46-31, and blocks, 8-3, to improve their win-loss record to 6-4 that strengthened their campaign in the final eight. "I think we did a good job in serving and passing today," Canada's 6-foot-8 outside hitter Stephen Maar said after the match at the mixed zone. "Our team had pretty flawless volleyball. Germany fought the good fight at the end, but we handled it really well so I'm for the team." Maar was Canada's leading attacker with 14 kills and a block for 15 points, while middle blocker 6-foot-10 Arthur Szwarc tallied 11 attacks, two blocks and two service aces for 15 points and Eric Loeppky added 11 points. "It's our favorite thing to do. When it's uncomfortable to play early in the morning, it's our favorite," Maar added when asked how they feel playing in the morning. "This year, we were able to be a bit more prepared and I think that's really helping start off our week." World's No. 9 Canada, already qualified for the Paris Summer Olympic Games, built a 15-6 lead in the third set behind the dominance of Maar and Szwarc. Germany mounted a comeback at 11-15, but Canada's frontline of Szwarc and Lucas Van Berkel was absolutely unstoppable. Germany fell to 4-6 record despite Moritz Karlitzek's 13 points on 12 kills and service point. TMT