ALAS Pilipinas Girls’ campaign in the FIVB Volleyball U17 World Championship took another setback after Japan secured a straight-set victory, 25-23, 25-19, 25-16, in the classification round on Saturday in Santiago, Chile.
The Philippines struggled to sustain its challenge against the Japanese side, who pulled away in each set to take control of the match and hand the Filipinas their fourth consecutive defeat in the tournament.
Caera Celis led Alas Pilipinas Girls with 16 points, including 12 attacks, three blocks and one service ace. She also contributed four digs and five excellent receptions.
Xyz Ellen Rayco added seven points, all from attacks, while Jhaynna Love Bulandres finished with four points from two attacks and two blocks. Cristina Madele Gale chipped in three points.
Japan dominated the statistical battle, particularly in attacks, 40-25, and service aces, 8-2. The Japanese also held a 9-7 advantage in blocks. The Philippines committed 17 errors compared with Japan’s 25.
The defeat dropped Alas Pilipinas into the classification battle for 13th to 16th place. The Filipinas will look to end their four-game skid when they face Venezuela in a rematch on Sunday.
The Philippines previously faced Venezuela in the preliminary round, where the South American side prevailed in five sets after the Filipinas failed to complete a comeback. (Adrian Co)
