By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA
The Philippines clobbered Macau, 25-14, 25-12, 25-9, to start its title campaign on a bright note in the 2023 AVC Challenge Cup for Women in Gresik, East Java, Indonesia on Monday, June 19.
The Filipina spikers pounced on their rivals with a well-balanced attack anchored on veteran setter Djanel Cheng, who distributed the ball well to wing spikers Faith Nisperos, Shaya Adorador and Aiza Pontillas.
Enjoying a slim 13-12 lead in the first frame, the Nationals ripped the game wide open behind the efforts of Nisperos, Adorador and Cheng by unleashing a 13-2 blast for the set victory.
Macau attempted to grab the momentum with a 6-5 advantage at the start of the second set, but the pair of Adorador and AC Madrigal stepped up this time with eight straight points to turn things around en route to the PH team’s 2-0 set lead.
The Filipinas continued to dictate their pace in the third as Macau slowly lost its steam.
The PH team overpowered Macau on all departments especially in attacks, where it fired 40 spikes compared to its opponents’ 12 kills.
They also lorded over the defensive department with six blocks compared to Macau’s three.
Up next for the PH squad is host Indonesia on Tuesday, June 20, at 8 p.m. with the winner earning the top spot in Pool A.
Indonesia opened its campaign with a 25-7, 25-18, 25-8 rout of Macau last Sunday, June 18.
