Faith Nisperos made the most of her increased minutes, stepping up impressively in Alas Pilipinas' commanding straight-set win over Chinese Taipei.
This victory clinched the Philippines' sweep of Pool A in the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup for Women.
Nisperos filled in for opposite spiker Angel Canino and delivered a standout performance that contributed significantly to the Philippines’ dominant 25-13, 25-21, 25-18 victory at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum on Sunday. Her presence on the court was a key factor as Alas Pilipinas finished the group phase with a perfect 4-0 record.
The Akari Charger finished with eight points, four of which came in the opening set, showcasing her ability to perform under pressure.
“Like I said, I want to maximize every chance I can get and get all the experience I can get, and ipakita yung skills ko every chance I can get,” said Nisperos, who had not played in the team’s first two matches but was brought in late during their win over Iran the day before.
Expressing her gratitude for the opportunity, Nisperos highlighted the importance of game time for both her and her fellow reserves.
“I’m really grateful binigyan ako ng chance and also my other teammates who played today,” said the 24-year-old outside hitter.
“Every playing time is a big deal for every player. It boosts our confidence because we can see everyone actually playing inside the court, and we know ano yung kaya naming gawin.”
Nisperos, a former MVP in the V-League Collegiate Challenge Tournament, also credited her teammates, especially team captain Jia De Guzman, for their trust and support.
“It is definitely a one-time experience na kasama ko si Ate Jia inside the court, and her calling me was a very malaking bagay for me kasi pinakitang nagtiwala siya sakin. If may tiwala siya sakin, siyempre dapat ako magtiwala rin sa sarili ko,” Nisperos shared.
“Boost na boost ako because of my teammates, my coaches, and of course, all of the supporters here. Talagang malaking bagay for me and I'm actually very enlightened playing on Tuesday.”
