By NIKOLE JAVIER
Alas Pilipinas made quick work of Australia, 25-23, 25-15, 25-7, to bag the bronze medal and cap its historic run in the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup on Wednesday, May 29, at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
After suffering a sorry knockout semifinal exit against Kazakhstan the day prior, the Philippines was quick to get back on its feet and refused to be left empty-haned in its home turf in front of the growing volleyball fans.
The Philippines actually opened its campaign in the tournament with a four-set victory over Australia before going all the way undefeated to the semifinal, successfully sweeping the Pool A action.
This time, though, Alas Pilipinas didn’t need an extra set to turn back the visiting side as it reasserted its mastery in just three sets.
In limited preparation and time, Jorge de Brito managed to bring glory to the country’s 63-year history in an AVC-sanctioned tournament.
The weeklong tournament saw Angel Canino shone brilliantly as Alas Pilipinas’ top performer.
Canino tallied a team-high 14 points highlighted by 13 attacks, while Sisi Rondina contributed 13 markers, which was very reminiscent of their first game.
Thea Gagate and Eya Laure provided ample support with 10 markers apiece in the balanced effort.
Meanwhile, Caitlin Tipping paced Australia with 13 points as the lone bright spot in the defeat.
The victory also drew support from Senator Bong Go, who has expressed his intent to provide financial support through the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) amounting to P200,000 each athlete and coach of Alas Pilipinas.
As de Brito’s contract hangs in balance for the meantime, the squad will be heading to South Korea for a pair of exhibition games on June 7.
