JAPAN’s Kurashiki Ablaze made its 2023 PVL Invitational Conference debut in style with a four set triumph over Vietnam’s Kinh Bac Bac Ninh, 23-25, 25-14, 25-20, 25-11, on Saturday at the PhilSports Arena.
Kurashiki Ablaze vs Kinh Bac Bac Ninh 2023 PVL Invitational recap
Utility winger Tamaru Asaka erupted for 29 points built on 28 attacks and one block in just four sets to lead the Japan-based squad in its first taste of PVL action.
Kurashiki’s first local assignment will be against Cignal on Monday.
Despite losing a closely contested first frame, the Ablaze girls caught fire quickly to take a firm grasp of the match en route to a commanding reverse sweep.
Floor defense also proved to be Kurashiki's strong suit as its starting libero Takahashi Kaoru registered 31 excellent digs on top of eight excellent receptions.
Meanwhile, the Vietnamese side could not capitalize on its winning start despite 24 combined points from its one-two punch Nguyen Huong and Nguyen Oanh.
A tough second outing awaits Kinh Bac Bac Ninh when they face defending champion Creamline on Tuesday.
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