The much-anticipated return of the Philippine men’s national volleyball team in the Asian Games did not unfold as planned.
On Tuesday night, the Filipino spikers, despite keeping it close throughout, fell to their regional rival, Indonesia, with scores of 22-25, 23-25, and 20-25, marking the beginning of their campaign at the Deqing Sports Centre Gymnasium in Huzhou, China.
The Philippines now holds a 0-1 record in Pool F, which also includes powerhouse Japan and Afghanistan.
Bryan Bagunas led the team with 17 points, comprised of 16 attacks and one ace, in a losing effort.
Meanwhile, Steven Rotter and Marck Espejo, who came off the bench, contributed nine and eight points, respectively, while Jau Umandal and Kim Malabunga combined for nine points.
This marks the Filipinos’ first game in the Asiad following a 49-year absence. The last time the Philippines competed in the Asian Games was in the 1974 edition, where they finished sixth out of eight teams.
Leading the way for the Indonesians was Agil Anggara with 11 points, seven of which he scored in the opening set alone. Fahry Putratama and Doni Haryono added 10 markers each in the victory.
The Philippines will aim to bounce back against Afghanistan tomorrow, Wednesday, at 2:30 p.m. at the same venue.
