For Sisi Rondina, the encounter with Vietnam in the 2024 FIVB Challenger Cup marked a long-awaited opportunity to measure up against a regional powerhouse that had eluded her during Alas Pilipinas' bronze medal run in the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup for Women just months prior.
Friday night at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila saw the Philippines face Vietnam, ultimately succumbing in straight sets (14-25, 22-25, 21-25), thus concluding their campaign in the Challenger Cup.
Despite the defeat, the Choco Mucho superstar found solace in the experience, recognizing the immense learning gained from competing against the formidable Vietnamese team.
“Syempre sobrang grateful kami na nakaharap namin yung Vietnam. Ang dami naming natutunan,” expressed the high-flying outside hitter from Cebu.
Rondina led the charge for the Filipinos with a commendable 15 points, all earned through powerful attacks, while opposite hitter Angel Canino contributed 12 points, showcasing her prowess with 11 spikes and a crucial service ace.
The 27-year-old former PVL MVP also conveyed her appreciation to the fans whose unwavering support filled the Manila stadium, witnessing Alas Pilipinas' spirited performance, particularly in the latter two sets where they narrowly missed a decisive breakthrough.
“Syempre sobrang saya kasi ang daming nakapanood. Nagpapasalamat ako sa lahat ng suporta,” Rondina expressed gratefully.
From the outset, facing Vietnam posed a daunting challenge as the defending Challenge Cup champions welcomed back Tran Thi Thanh Thuy, a pivotal player absent during their previous tournament triumph.
Vietnam relied heavily on the brilliance of Challenge Cup MVP Nguyen Thi Bich Tuyen, who amassed an impressive 30 points, dominated by 27 attacks and three blocks.
Nevertheless, Alas Pilipinas remained steadfast, drawing motivation from their leader, Jia De Guzman, who rallied the team before the match.
“Kanina nag-huddle lang kami, sabi lang ni ate Jia na wala dapat ibang isipin. Ipakita lang namin kung ano yung kaya namin gawin and alam naman namin na meron kaming kakayahan na hindi nila kaya,” shared Rondina, reflecting on their pre-game preparations.
“Ayun, kahit kinapos, nandoon pa rin yung laban.”
