Philippines’ late heater was not enough, falling to Vietnam in straight sets, 25-19, 25-17, 31-29, to open its 2022 Asian Volleyball Confederation Cup for Women campaign, Sunday at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.
The hosts started strong in the first two sets, but could not the job done, allowing the Vietnamese to gain the psychological advantage heading into the third.
Vietnam was ahead, 24-23, when Jeanette Panaga scored a kill for the Philippines to extend the third set.
The women’s national team went toe-to-toe with the Vietnamese since then, even reaching set point several times but crumbled in the end.
A net touch violation by Tots Carlos ended the match, giving Vietnam its first win in Pool A.
Despite the loss, the Philippines was able to keep afloat behind libero Kyla Atienza, who was solid in keeping the ball in play.
It was a memorable international debut for Atienza, a member of Premier Volleyball League champion Creamline.
“Nakaka-proud lalo na madaming sumusuporta sa amin. Masaya kami ngayon,” said Atienza.
Jema Galanza led the fightback for the Philippines, scoring five of her 13 points in the third set. Michele Gumabao added 11 while Tots Carlos fired six of her nine points in the set.
Also solid in her play was Kyle Negrito, who was making her international debut.
With Tran Tri Tranh Thuy leading the way, Atienza acknowledged the strengths of the Vietnamese.
Thi Thanh Thuy Tran led the way for Vietnam with 20 points while Thi Nguyet Anh Pham and Thi Bich Thuy Tran supplied 10 markers apiece.
“Magaling sila at magandang experience ito para sa amin,” said Atienza.
The Philippines will next face China on Tuesday, at 7 pm, at the same venue.
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