INDONESIA notched the much-needed bounce-back win as Alas Pilipinas suffered a double blow Saturday in the 2024 Southeast Asian Men’s V.League.
Fahri Septian Putrama delivered the big hits to power Indonesia to a 23-25, 25-19, 25-11, 25-21 victory at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, getting back on track after a straight-sets loss to Thailand in the opener.
Alas Pilipinas absorbed not only a tough defeat but a potentially devastating blow as main man Bryan Bagunas went down with a left leg injury, landing badly after a jump serve at the end of the match.
Bagunas again led the Philippines as he delivered 17 points, all on attacks, but stayed on the floor in pain as medics put a brace on his left leg as the teams did the post-match handshake.
The Philippine team members looked stunned as the Alas Pilipinas star was stretchered off, but Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Ramon “Tats” Suzara says he hopes the players don’t dwell on it.
“I know they are worried because Bryan is one of our strongest players, but this is a team sport and now everybody has to work even harder to finish this week strong,” said Suzara. “We hope Bryan’s injury is not severe, I hope he’s okay.”
“Everyone’s stepping up already, winning against Vietnam is something big. Today could have been better. But we will persevere, there is still the match against Thailand to look forward to.”
Fahri scored 21 on 19 attacks and two blocks, while Halim Fahran added 16 and Hendra Kurniawan chipped in with 13 for Indonesia.
The Philippines got 16 points from Michaelo Buddin, while Kim Malabunga scored seven.
