After their 1-4 record in last year's VNL Manila Leg, Canada is now 2-0 in the 2024 leg and continues to impress fans with their high level of play.
After their second-straight win in the 2024 VNL Manila Leg, Canada has already improved their record from last year’s leg which was also held at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
The Canadians are coming off a stellar straight-set win over Germany, 25-19, 25-18, 25-20.
Stephen Maar and Arthur Szwarc combined for 30 points in the clean victory, which helped the team climb to fifth in the standings.
“I think we did a good job in serving and passing today. Our team had pretty flawless volleyball. Germany gave some good fight in the end and I think we handled it really well, so I’m happy for the team,” Maar told reporters after the match.
[ALSO READ: VNL: Canada coach Tuomas Sammelvuo enjoys loud atmosphere from Filipino fans in Manila Leg opener versus Japan]
In last year’s Manila Leg, Canada finished with a 1-4 record, with their only win coming against China.
But this time around, Maar admitted to being well-adjusted to the Philippines on their second trip for the VNL leg, beating Japan and Germany in the process.
“This is my second time in the Philippines. Last year, I was struggling a lot physically with my body. Obviously, it’s a long travel to come here, so it’s not so easy sometimes,” Maar explained.
“This year, we were able to be a bit more prepared, and I think that’s really helping start off our week, so I’m really happy [and] grateful for all our medical staff who did a really good job,” he added.
Despite their match starting at 11 a.m. (11 p.m. in Canada time), the 29-year-old outside hitter said they enjoyed the early start—something that was clearly evident in the match.
“It’s our favorite thing to do. When it’s uncomfortable to play early in the morning, it’s our favorite,” said Maar.
Canada will look to go 3-0 in the Manila Leg when it faces Brazil tomorrow, June 21, at 3:00 p.m.