The U.S. Men’s A2 National Team (which includes four 49ers) out-hit and out-served Canada on Wednesday to take a 3-2 (25-22, 22-25, 25-21, 24-26, 15-13) victory at the Pan American Cup in Chiapas, Mexico.  With the victory, the U.S. Men win Group A with a 2-0 record and will get a day of rest on Thursday while the quarterfinals are played. Puerto Rico won the other group with a 3-0 record and has also advanced to the semifinals.

Robert Tarr, a former 49er, led all scorers on Wednesday with 22 points on 21 kills and one block. Dean Bittner, who still has one more year in gold and black, added 17 points on 11 kills, three blocks and three aces.  49er fans will be happy to hear that Dusty Watten started Wednesday’s match.  He made his case with 30 receptions, being credited with 77 percent positive receptions and 63 percent excellent

 “It was a good game, well fought,” U.S. Head Coach Rick McLaughlin said in a NORCECA press release. “I feel happy with this victory, which sends us to the semifinals and give us the chance to continue watching our potential opponents.”