Philippines falls short against Thailand U-23 squad in first tune-up

The Philippine Women’s National Volleyball Team succumbed to the Under-23 squad of the Thailand National Team, 25-22, 25-22, 23-25, 17-25, 13-15, in the first of five tune-up games in Bangkok, Thailand.

The Nationals seized control in the first and second sets, unleashing a balanced offensive thrust that gave them a commanding two-set buffer.

However, disaster struck for the Filipinas.

The host university team whittled away the set deficit to forge a decisive fifth frame before completing a stunning come-from-behind victory.

National team head coach Shaq Delos Santos only had 10 players at his disposal in the five-set affair — skipper Aby Marano, Kalei Mau, Alohi Robins-Hardy, Aiza Maizo-Pontillas, Mylene Paat, Majoy Baron, Ces Molina, Roselyn Doria, Dawn Macandili, and Kath Arado.

Meanwhile, Alyssa Valdez, Jia Morado, Maddie Madayag, Eya Laure. and Jovelyn Gonzaga are set to join the rest of the squad on Sunday, September 15.

The Filipinas shall face the seniors’ team of Thailand on Tuesday at the Sports Authority of Thailand Gym.