Japan extended its winning ways after asserting dominance over Poland with a 3-0 victory, 25-21, 25-21, 25-21, in Week 2 of the FIVB Volleyball Nations League, Tuesday evening, at the SMART Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
Masayoshi Manabe’s crew blasted to an early 12-6 advantage midway through the first set. Japan’s lead extended to as much as seven before an attack by Haruyo Shimamura secured the opening set on a 25-21 advantage.
Poland bounced back to keep things tighter in the second set but their opponents pulled away late to steal a 25-21 win.
Arisa Inoue led Japan’s charge in the third set as they kept their foot on the pedal to end the tilt with a 25-20 victory.
“We played well, this is amazing but I want to try better than today in the future,” said Inoue with the help of an interpreter. “Philippine fans have a very big passion. I felt the support and I appreciate it.”
Sarina Koga headlined the Japanese with 19 points on 16 attacks to go with two blocks and a service ace. Inoue followed with 17 points on 16 hits and a block of her own for the team’s winning cause.
“We tried to adapt to their style but it wasn’t easy for us. We’re not used to playing against Asian teams — this is the first time this season,” Poland head coach Stefano Lavarini admitted after absorbing a straight-set loss. “Japan deserved to win and we took our lesson. I hope it would be a good lesson for growing and doing better next time.”
No player from Poland managed to reach double-digits in scoring.
Magdalena Jurczyk and Olivia Rozanski led the team with nine points apiece while Gryka Alexsandra contributed eight markers.
Both teams shall next play on June 16, Thursday, at the SMART Araneta Coliseum. Poland (3-2) will match up against Thailand (4-1) at 11:00 AM while Japan (5-0) will aim to keep its record unblemished against Bulgaria (1-3) at 7:00 PM.
