Coming off a setback against the host nation, Alas Pilipinas Girls bounced back impressively with a 25-16, 25-23, 21-25, 25-19 victory over Australia, keeping their hopes alive for a spot in the final of the 22nd Princess Cup SEA U18 Women’s Volleyball Championship at the Nakhon Pathom Gymnasium in Thailand.
The Filipinas, coached by Taka Minowa and backed by Akari, are tied with Indonesia for second and third place with identical 3-1 records.
The two teams will face each other tomorrow at 12:30 p.m. (Manila time) in a crucial match that will determine who advances to the championship round.
Meanwhile, Thailand (3-0) appears set for the final, facing winless Singapore later today at 5:30 p.m.
Kimberly Rubin shone as Alas' standout player, with Lianne Penuliar and captain Harlyn Serneche providing essential support.
Australia mounted a challenge in the fourth set, but untimely errors coupled with crucial points from Rubin, Serneche, and Avril Bron secured the Philippines' third victory.
The second set highlighted the Filipinas' resilience.
Trailing 23-19 due to the efforts of Australia's 6-foot-4 middle blocker Anni Tang and 6-foot-3 opposite hitter Lara Maric, the Filipinas staged a comeback.
Serneche delivered three consecutive points, followed by Bron's ace to tie the game at 23.
A costly attack error by Tang and a through-the-block kill by Denesse Daylisan sealed the set for a commanding 2-0 lead.
Australia pushed back in the third set, with Chelsea Cocks,
Hilary Hannagan, and Milla Greber ensuring the match extended, taking the set 25-21. However, the Filipinas' solid performance in the fourth set clinched the match, reinforcing their bid for the championship.
