Our blocking controlled Australia’s offence: Mexico coach

Ricardo Naranjo Ponce, Head Coach of Mexico: We played two friendly matches against Australia and we knew we needed to stop Rachel Rourke, their strongest player. Sainz was fantastic. Her serves, reception and effective attacks were crucial, and her experience gave us what we needed to defeat Australia. It is difficult for Mexico to close a match; when we reach point 20, it seems like the girls lose concentration. We expect harder matches looking forward in the tournament.

Andrea Rangel, captain of Mexico: We are very pleased to have won tonight, but even more excited with the support and response from our crowd. We were all nervous but that is normal for an opening match. The team was focused; we did not lose control.

Shannon Winzer, Head Coach of Australia: Mexico played really well tonight. Their blocking was fantastic, they shut down our middles, they shut down our big hitters and we struggled to find a way to score. Sainz brings a lot of energy to Mexico; she is a tough player to play. The crowd gave them the energy they needed to go after the win.

Beth Carey, captain of Australia: In the first set, we took more aggressive risks and they paid off. Mexico came out stronger and we backed off, we were too tentative. We need to learn to take risks more often. The crowd was great and has a huge energy, the noise and love for volleyball is incredible, we feel it too.