Greece women’s youth team achieved its first victory for Group D of the Beach Handball World Championships, prevailing with 2-0 (23-12, 20-8) over Puerto Rico, in both teams’ debut in the event.

Koukmisi, Suska and Malle scored 10 pointsapiecetolead the hosts’ attack.

With its victory, Greece got the upper hand in terms of qualification to the second stage, providing they beat Hong Kong as well later today (Central Court, 18:20).

In the first set, Greece started impressively with 9:0 run in just 4 minutes of play, while they also heldan 8:1 lead, early in the second set.

The sets: 23:12, 20:8

Greece: Papakosta, Spirollari 4, Patsani 1, Mandamadioti, Koukmisi 10, Malle 10, Kourti, Mylona 5, Kaprinioti 3, Souska 10.

PuertoRico: Ramos, Barros 4, Nazario 2, Rivera, Ortiz 12, Valle 2, Rodriguez, Feliciano, Betacourt

Referees: Barbosa- Machado (POR), Suspensions: 0-2

Quotes

Athena Kaprinioti (Greece - Goalkeeper)

"We made a very good start and we want to continue with the same pace. We did not feel nervous at all and thus we managed to control the game from the beginning. It helped us a lot that we played in the European Championship last year because we can deal with these games easier".

AbielAcevendo(Puerto Rico - Coach)

"It was our first game and we were obviously nervous. We are happy with our participation, we feel proud to represent Puerto Rico. We want to develop the sport in our country".