THE Philippines absorbed its second loss in as many games in the first leg of the 2023 Southeast Asia V. League against star-studded Thailand, 19-25, 7-25, 17-25, at the Vinh Phuc Gymnasium in Vietnam on Saturday (local time).
Philippines vs Thailand 2023 Southeast Asia V. League first leg recap
Less than 24 hours after dropping its debut game to host Vietnam, the Nationals made a gallant stand but failed to match the attacking firepower of veteran Thai stars Ajcharaporn Kongyot, Pimpichaya Kokram, and Chatchu-on Moksri.
Bella Belen and Alyssa Solomon’s one-two punch was at the forefront of the Philippines’ attack once again after producing 16 points each in their tournament opener loss on Friday.
For the two-time Asian champions who have yet to drop a single set in two victories, a formidable Vietnam side led by start spiker Trần Thị Thanh Thúy will be their final assignment of the opening leg on Sunday.
Meanwhile, the Philippines look to end its debut stint on a high against also-ran Indonesia on Sunday, 5 p.m. local time.
As it stands, the winner of the Indonesia-Philippines match on the final day of first leg hostilities will bag the bronze medal.
The three-day SEA V. League second leg kicks off on August 11 with the same four-team cast competing in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
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