Photo from: SMM Volleyball
NAKHONPHATOM, THAILAND — After a hot start to their 22nd Princess Cup Women’s U18 SEA Championship campaign, Akari-Philippines U18 Women’s Volleyball Team suffered its first loss in the tournament at the hands of home team Thailand, 15-25, 12-25, 11-25, at the Nhakonphatom Gym, Monday.
Kim Rubin was the lone Filipina player to score in double digits with 11 points built from 11 attacks, while Deneese Daylisan chipped in six markers.
On the flip side, 6’0 outside spiker Supawadee Panwilai spearheaded Thailand’s attack with 18 points composed of 13 attacks, three aces, and two blocks. Kanoiu Kasikan and Kaewnok Atitaya added 14 and nine markers, respectively.
With the score tied at 7-all in the first set, the Thais unleashed a 7-0 run capped off by Atitaya’s off-the-block tip to break the game wide open.
The Philippines tried to fight back and cut a 11-20 deficit to five with a 4-0 blast, but the Thais responded with another 5-0 counterpunch to secure the first.
The Pinays struggled to find their rhythm as Thailand continued to step on the gas pedal to bag the next two sets in dominating fashion.
Despite the loss, the Philippines still holds a 2-1 record and will aim to bounce back against Australia at 2 p.m. tomorrow (Philippine time).
