On Day 2 of the Southeast Asia Volleyball League second leg at the City of Sta. Rosa Multi-Purpose Complex in Laguna, Indonesia and Vietnam showcased their prowess with impressive wins.
Indonesia reaffirmed its dominance over the Philippines, securing a 25-20, 25-22, 25-20 victory, while Vietnam exacted revenge on Thailand in an intense match, triumphing 25-20, 25-19, 28-30, 21-25, 15-9.
Having already clinched the championship in the first leg in Jakarta, Indonesia continued its winning streak, improving to 2-0 in the second leg and remaining one win away from another title.
Meanwhile, Vietnam’s hard-fought victory brought them to a tie with Thailand at 1-1.
The hosts, represented by the Philippine National Volleyball Federation and supported by PLDT, City of Santa Rosa, Philippine Olympic Committee, Philippine Sports Commission, One Sports, and Cignal, have yet to secure a win in the regional volleyball tournament, facing two consecutive defeats.
Leading the charge for Indonesia was Farhan Halim, contributing 19 points through 18 hits and an ace. Doni Haryono and Dimas Saputra provided valuable support, adding 12 and 11 points, respectively.
The Indonesians showcased their dominance by defeating both Vietnam and the Philippines in previous matches.
For the Philippines, Steven Rotter emerged as a standout player with 13 points, while Bryan Bagunas settled for seven points after an outstanding 25-point performance against Thailand. Marck Espejo also contributed 10 points in the losing effort.
Despite their valiant efforts, the Philippines succumbed to a narrow defeat against Thailand in five sets, 24-26, 27-25, 25-21, 23-25, 14-16.
Vietnam demonstrated resilience and determination, avenging its loss to Thailand in Jakarta with an impressive win.
Five players from Vietnam achieved double-digit scores, with Thuan Nguyen Ngoc and Tien Duong Van leading the charge with 17 points each.
Hiep Pham Van, Thuan Tu Thanh, and Khai Truong The also contributed 13 points apiece.
The upcoming matches promise more thrilling action as the Philippines takes on Vietnam on Sunday at 6 p.m., aiming to secure a dominant victory and vie for a spot on the podium.
Indonesia aims for a clean sweep at 3 p.m. against Thailand, making for an exciting conclusion to the second leg of the VLeague.
