In a dazzling debut at the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup for Women, the synergy between Jia De Guzman and newcomers Sisi Rondina and Angel Canino propelled Alas Pilipinas to a resounding, 22-25, 25-19, 25-16, 25-21, victory over Australia in front of a spirited crowd of 4,945 fans at the historic Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila.
The Philippines, currently ranked second in Pool A with a 1-0 record, showcased remarkable resilience throughout the game.
Despite encountering some tense moments in the fourth set as Australia closed in, Alas Pilipinas demonstrated maturity and composure. Key contributions from Canino, Eya Laure, and Fifi Sharma sealed the victory, punctuated by Rondina's decisive crosscourt kill.
Coach Jorge Souza de Brito praised De Guzman's exceptional leadership and skill, emphasizing her pivotal role in guiding the team to success.
Alas' cohesive play, bolstered by stellar performances from both veterans and debutants, underscored their strength as a unit.
While Alas Pilipinas faced challenges, including errors in the opening set, they swiftly adapted, showcasing dominance in subsequent sets.
Vanie Gandler provided a crucial spark off the bench, while strong performances from Canino, Rondina, and Laure propelled the team to victory.
Canino had 17 points in her senior national team debut on 15 attacks, a block, and an ace, while Rondina got 16 points on 15 spikes and one ace in her indoor national team debut.
Laure also tallied 17 points on 14-of-28 attacks, two aces, and a block to her name.
Gagate delivered a team-high four blocks to finish with 11 points while Sharma had seven points as well.
De Guzman facilitated Alas’ offense the whole game while also getting six points including a game-high three service aces.
Although edged out in the blockiing department (7-12), the Philippines’ advantage in the spiking (59-37) and service (9-2) categories were more than enough.
On the other hand, middle blocker Kara Inskip was the lone player in double digits for Australia with 12 points on six attacks and six blocks.
Tipping had nine while Burton got eight points in the losing cause too.
Cassie Dodd, who had 10 blocks against Chinese Taipei yesterday, was held to just two blocks and four attacks for six points.
