Canada blanks Kazakhstan to score first win at women’s volleyball world championship

LÓDZ, Poland – Canada knocked off Kazakhstan to pick up its first win at the women’s world volleyball championship on Thursday.

After dropping its two opening matches to the top-ranked U.S. and defending champions Serbia, the Canadians bounced back to blank Kazakhstan in three straight games (25-14, 25-16, 25-11), with Kiera Van Ryk, of Surrey, B.C., leading all scorers with 18 points.

“I think we were all really ready to get a win,” said Van Ryk. “Each game before this, Serbia and the U.S., was a step forward. I’m glad we could come here today, respect the other team and show that we can take care of business.

“I’m really proud of us today — it was a full team effort.”

Canada led in attack points (45-21), blocks (11-2) and serving (5-0 aces) but made more errors (14-18) than its opponent.

“We were hungry to finish out on top in this third game of the tournament. I think the win gives us a little more confidence going into the next game,” said head coach Shannon Winzer.

The Canadians wrap up pool play with matches against Bulgaria on Friday and Germany on Saturday.

The top four teams from each pool will advance to the medal round.

The 19th women’s world championship is co-hosted by the Netherlands and Poland with matches played in three Dutch and three Polish cities until Oct. 15.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 29, 2022.