By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA
The Philippines survived a stubborn India, 25-22, 26-28, 11-25, 29-27, 18-16 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 – their second in three games.
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 to finish with 23 points while Aiza Pontillas displayed her vintage form tallying 24 points.
Faith Nisperos chipped in 14 points.
India erased a 9-6 fifth-set deficit to take a slim 10-9 lead but Pontillas and Adorador came through with timely hits to avoid the embarrassment of losing to the Indians.
Up next for the PH team will be Australia on Friday, June 23, as the tournament takes a break Thursday, June 22.
