Defending champions Suriname won their second title during the XVIII CAZOVA Caribbean Championship following a five-set thriller 3-2 victory over 10-time champion Barbados.

The hosts took the final winning 19-25, 25-21, 29-27, 23-25, 17-15.

It was also redemption for the hosts who lost to Barbados in their opening match of the tournament.

Barbados took the first set 25-19 before a fired up Suriname took the next two sets 25-21 and 29-27. Barbados rallied to win the fourth set 25-23 win to force a deciding set, which went down to the wire with the hosts winning the tie-breaker 17-15.

Suriname’s opposite Zefanio Breinburg had 28 points (16 on attacks, four on blocks, and two on serves) while and his teammate, middle blocker, Ethan Asimia, contributed with 17 points from attacks and three on blocks, totaling 20 points.

For Barbados, middle blocker Willams Akeil had 20 points, all from attacks.

Winning coach Carlos Orta said his team played with a lot of passion.

“The winning formula was that my team played with their heart,” he said.

“They know the fifth set will be ours. Most of the teams will be tired, but Barbados shows up today and give us a very hard time. I am very happy with the victory and very proud. Now I will give the group seven days’ rest before training again.” 

With the win Suriname qualifies for the continental championships that will be held in the USA.