BRYAN Bagunas’ awkward end-game fall added insult to injury in Alas Pilipinas’ 25-23, 19-25, 11-25, 21-25 loss to Indonesia in the 2024 SEA V.League on Saturday at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
It was the defending champions that dealt the nationals’ first loss after a historic breakthrough less than 24 hours ago against Vietnam.
But the podium dream is still alive and well for the Philippines, albeit a tall order, against Asian powerhouse Thailand on Sunday.
Down 20-24 in the fourth set, Bagunas’ typical jump serve, one often characterized by its sheer power, had a different and unfortunate ending. The Alas captain struggled to keep his balance and fell awkwardly on his left knee.
Silence and concern packed the home crowd, with the team quick to attend to an ailing Bagunas on the court. An immobilizer was attached to his left knee before eventually being stretchered off the court.
Indonesia would yield just one more point before putting the match away to share an even 1-1 slate with the Philippines.
The PNVF has yet to issue official word on the extent of Bagunas' injury as of press time.
Bagunas fired a team-leading 17 attack points before his abrupt exit in the match's closing stretch.
Michaelo Buddin pitched in 16 markers to help Bagunas lead Alas in the scoring front as Kim Malabunga (seven points), Louie Ramirez (six points) and Rwenzmel Taguibolos (five points) all struggled.
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