The Akari-Philippines U18 Women’s Volleyball Team fell to Iran in three sets, 20-25, 19-25, 25-20, to begin its 15th Asian Women’s U18 Volleyball Championship in Ratchaburi, Thailand, last Saturday.
After losing the first two sets, the Philippines looked to extend the match as they led Iran midway through, 11-9.
However, the Iranians unleashed a 13-3 run to leave the Philippines in the dust with the score of 16-22.
Akari-Philippines did not raise the white flag just yet after countering with a 4-1 run, but Iran spoiled the hopes of a Philippine comeback as Yasna Ahankoubroo and Ayda scored the last two points to seal the victory for the Iranians.
No one from the Philippine scored in double digits as Akeyla Bartolabac only scored seven points including six attacks and one block.
Avril Bron contributed six points composed of three attacks and three blocks, while Lianne Penuliar and team captain Harlyn Serneche added five points each.
On the other hand, Masi Ghadamitabaghdehi led Iran with 17 points built from 16 attacks and one ace, while Ayda Valinezhad and Yalda Jafari Khoulenjani chipped in 11 and nine points, respectively.
The Philippines currently holds a record of 0-1 in Pool B and will aim to bounce back against leader Japan (2-0) at 5:30 p.m. today, June 18. A win against the undefeated Japanese will give the Pinays a chance to enter the second round.