Foton Pilipinas’ Italian head coach Fabio Mento was somber when he began his press conference following his team’s win over Hong Kong in the on-going AWCC.
“Firstly, I want to dedicate this win to the people of Davao in this very trying time for the country,” Menta expressed.
Last night, Davao was devastated by an apparent terrorist bombing in a night market that killed 10 and injured more.
Having coached Foton for a brief two weeks, Menta has fallen in love with the country and it’s people. Recently, Menta and Foton paid a courtesy call to current President and former Davao Mayor Rodrigo Duterte.
Despite the current state of mourning in the country, Foton Pilipinas delivered an uplifting win in front of a packed Alonte Sports Arena in Biñan, Laguna.
Starting slowly, Foton picked their game up midway through the first set and never looked back.
“With tournaments like this, We played poorly to start the match – Hong Kong really outplayed us in all facets of the game. We were able to use our advantage in height and in the block in the end to take us to the win,” Menta said.
“For a team which I coached for just two weeks and with several players missing practice, I think we’re in a good state.”
Tomorrow at 2:00 pm, Foton continues their campaign against a tough Vietnam side.
“They (Vietnam) can really speed up the ball. I think we need to use our height and blocking advantage against the as well as be able to keep up with their speed to come out with the win tomorrow,” Menta closed.
