The United States women's volleyball team opened the Pasig leg of the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) with a dominant straight-set victory over the Dominican Republic on Wednesday at PhilSports Arena. The Americans won 25-20, 25-19, 25-12 in a match presented by the Philippine Sports Commission.
Controlled Performance by Reshuffled Squad
A reshuffled United States squad delivered a controlled, efficient performance, sweeping the Dominican Republic in straight sets. Setter Jordyn Poulter directed the offense as the Americans outpaced their opponents in attack points, 43-31.
Key Players Shine
Jordan Thompson led the charge with 13 attack points and added two service aces in her Week 1 holdover role. Logan Eggleston contributed 10 attack points, while Dana Rettke added five attacks and five blocks. The United States improved to 4-1 with the victory.
The Americans mixed power and precision at the service line, at times firing serves clocked above 90 kilometers per hour. This forced the Dominican Republic into difficult first contacts and rushed transitions.
Despite the Dominican Republic holding statistical advantages in reception (69-46) and setting (104-94), the United States maintained control throughout the match.
Building Chemistry
Thompson said the team is still building chemistry with a reworked roster but adjusted quickly during play.
“It’s been about practicing, training, and trying to gel together as a group since it’s a new roster,” Thompson said. “It wasn’t always pretty, but we find ways to grind through it even when it’s not exactly how we want it.”
Dominican Republic Struggles
Yokaira Paola Peña Ysabel led the Dominican Republic with eight points, while Alondra Denis Tapia Cruz added five, all from attacks. The Dominican Republic dropped to 0-5 after suffering its fifth straight loss.
