Khy Progella and Sofiah Pagara delivered the Philippines its first-ever Asian Games medal in beach volleyball on Friday.
The Alas Pilipinas duo fought back from multiple deficits to stun China’s Cao Shuting and Dong Jie, 13-21, 23-21, 15-13, and secure the bronze medal at the 20th Asian Games at the Hekinan Ryokuchi Beach Court in Aichi, Japan.
The Nationals trailed 19-16 in the second set but mounted a comeback behind strong defense, smart plays, and crucial errors from their Chinese foes to force a deciding set.
The Philippines faced another steep deficit in the third, falling behind 4-8 before rallying to keep its medal hopes alive.
Trailing 10-12 late in the set, the Nationals unleashed their final push as the Chinese pair committed three errors. Progella then delivered two crucial attacks to complete the 15-13 comeback and secure the historic bronze.
The victory gave the Philippines its first-ever Asian Games medal in beach volleyball.
