After a taking a breather, the Philippines will be back on the warpath as it battles China in the Asian Volleyball Confederation Cup for Women today at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
Game time is at 7 p.m. with the undermanned Filipinas looking to gain their first win in this prestigious continental tournament.
The Filipinas had a slow start after suffering a 25-19, 25-17, 31-29 beating from Southeast Asian rival Vietnam late Sunday.
With top gun Alyssa Valdez down with dengue and open spiker Risa Sato under health protocols, the Nationals struggled early en route to suffering their first loss after one hour and 41 minutes of action.
The home team sprung to life in the crucial stretch of the third, but Vietnam scored three consecutive points sealed by an attack error by Premier Volleyball League Most Valuable Player Tots Carlos.
With that, the Philippines sank in the Pool A standing with 0-1 joining the young South Korean side, which suffered a 9-25, 8-25, 9-25 loss to China in the opener.
The South Koreans have a chance to win their first game as they battle Iran at press time.
The Vietnamese, meanwhile, put up a strong stand before bowing to China, 12-25, 6-25, 31-21, 25-21, 12-15 in the second day of hostilities on Monday.
Against the Philippines, captain Tran Thi Thanh Thuy led all scorers with 20 points while Pham Thi Nguyet Anh and Tran Thi Bich Thuy scored 10 markers each for the Vietnamese, who clinched the bronze medal in the 31st Southeast Asian Games last May.
Jema Galanza scored 13 points for the Philippines with Michele Gumabao dropping nine attacks and two blocks for 11 markers.
Carlos scored nine points while PVL Invitational Finals MVP Ced Domingo scored seven markers.
Despite the loss, Kyla Atienza is happy with her national team debut and is something she won’t forget in a hurry.
“I’m very proud, especially when I do see those fans who cheer for us. I’m very happy right now,” said Atienza, who will have additional reinforcement as Jia de Guzman and coach Sherwin Meneses have been cleared to see action.
“They are very good. For me, it’s a good experience and the exposure to play against other countries.
