Japan showed its prowess against Southeast Asian powerhouse Thailand with a 25-22, 25-16, 25-14 victory Friday to remain unscathed in Week 2 of the Volleyball Nations League Women’s Leg at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Japanese overcame the Thais’ aggressive plays in the opening set before setting the pace throughout to extend their winning run to seven games for 20 points.
Sarina Koga skippered the Japanese crew by pumping in 21 points built on 18 kills and three blocks, while reinforcements also came from Arisa Inoue, who unloaded 15 attacks for 17 points.
Thailand waxed hot in the opening frame when it led 14-11 and held on to a 20-17 advantage off a spike from Kokram Pimpichaya.
But the Japanese were quick to retaliate with their fast plays and sturdy defense, scoring seven straight points to put it at set point, 24-20.
Thailand saved two set points but it was not enough as Koga sealed the frame for Japan with a hard-hitting kill.
From then on, Japan dictated the tempo, leading by as many as 23-13 in the third set before clinching the victory.
Moksri Chatchu-on and Kongyot Ajcharaporn scored 11 and 10 points for Thailand, which absorbed its third defeat in seven matches for 12 points.