Alas Pilipinas faced a tough challenge in their second outing in the 2024 Southeast Asia V-League Leg 1, suffering a heavy defeat against Thailand with scores of 12-25, 18-25, 10-25 on Saturday in Vinh Phuc, Vietnam.
Thailand dominated from the start, launching 16 successful attacks and four service aces in the opening set. This early momentum allowed the Thais to comfortably field their second-string players as the match progressed.
Despite a stronger showing in the second set, Alas Pilipinas struggled to find their footing. Thailand's impeccable play highlighted why they are considered the best in the region, leaving the Philippines with little opportunity to mount a comeback, thus taking a 2-0 lead.
In the third set, Thailand started with a blazing 15-4 run, quickly extending their lead to 19-6. They maintained their dominance to close out the match and secure their second consecutive victory in the tournament.
For Alas Pilipinas, no player reached double digits in scoring. The National University duo of Bella Belen and Alyssa Solomon each contributed five points, while ZUS Coffee’s Thea Gagate and Akari’s Faith Nisperos added four markers apiece.
Thailand's Chatchu-on Moksri led her team with 11 points, followed closely by Ajcharaporn Kongyot with 10 points.
After a narrow four-set loss to host Vietnam (23-25, 25-20, 22-25, 21-25) the previous day, the Filipinas were hopeful for a rebound against Thailand but fell short.
The Philippines (0-2) will have another opportunity to secure their first win in the tournament on Sunday when they face Indonesia, aiming to avoid a winless campaign in the opening leg.
