PH survives India, keeps campaign alive in AVC Challenge Cup
The Philippines survived a stubborn India with a nail-biting 25-22, 26-28, 11-25, 29-27, 18-16 victory to remain in contention in the 2023 AVC Challenge Cup for Women in East Java, Indonesia Wednesday night, June 21.
The Filipina spikers rode on the heroics of Shaya Adorador and Djanel Cheng in the pivotal moment after the duo scored back-to-back points that sealed the win. Following a quick attack from Aswani Kandoth that tied the match at 16-all in the crucial fifth set, Adorador unloaded a booming crosscourt attack before Cheng unleashed an ace to give the PH team the victory. Adorador was consistent throughout, exploding with 23 points while Aiza Pontillas displayed her vintage form and anchored the crew with 24 points. Faith Nisperos chipped in with 14 points. After failing to close the match in the crucial fourth frame, India refused to be intimidated as it turned a 9-6 fifth-set deficit to a slim 10-9 upperhand. But Pontillas and Adorador were ready to steer the Filipinas, unleashing powerful kills that rattled the Indians. Then it was Cheng’s time to deliver en route to the all-important triumph. Up next for the PH team will be Australia on Friday, June 23, as the tournament takes a break Thursday, June 22.
*The PH team overcame a resilient India in the tournament. (AVC)
*The Filipina spikers rode on the heroics of Shaya Adorador and Djanel Cheng in the pivotal moment after the duo scored back-to-back points that sealed the win. Following a quick attack from Aswani Kandoth that tied the match at 16-all in the crucial fifth set, Adorador unloaded a booming crosscourt attack before Cheng unleashed an ace to give the PH team the victory. Adorador was consistent throughout, exploding with 23 points while Aiza Pontillas displayed her vintage form and anchored the crew with 24 points. Faith Nisperos chipped in with 14 points. After failing to close the match in the crucial fourth frame, India refused to be intimidated as it turned a 9-6 fifth-set deficit to a slim 10-9 upperhand. But Pontillas and Adorador were ready to steer the Filipinas, unleashing powerful kills that rattled the Indians. Then it was Cheng’s time to deliver en route to the all-important triumph. Up next for the PH team will be Australia on Friday, June 23, as the tournament takes a break Thursday, June 22.