By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA
The Philippines lost to a more aggressive Thailand side, 25-19, 25-7, 25-17, in the 2023 Southeast Asia V.League at the Vinh Phuc Gymnasium in Vietnam on Saturday, Aug. 5.
Still licking their wounds from a loss to host Vietnam the day before, the Filipina spikers struggled to counter the strong attacks of the Thais to absorb their second straight loss in as many games.
Bella Belen led the PH squad with 10 points while Alyssa Solomon added six points, but their efforts were not enough as Thailand pounced on them with their ferocious kills anchored on Janthawisut Sasipapron.
Sasipapron spearheaded the Thais with 12 points built on 10 kills and two aces, while getting reinforcements from Srithong Wipawee and Sooksod Thanacha, who had eight and seven points, respectively.
So powerful were the Thais they tallied more attacks, 49-24, and produced six aces.
Thailand’s victory tied them with Vietnam with identical 2-0 marks following its straight set win over Indonesia on Friday, Aug. 4.
The PH spikers battle also-ran Indonesia at press time in their bid to end their campaign on a high note.
