The Philippines, represented by PVL champion Creamline, dropped its AVC Cup for Women opener against Vietnam in straight sets, 19-25, 17-25, 29-31, on Sunday at the PhilSports Arena.
But the Cool Smashers, who had no idea they will represent the country two weeks ago, proved they can go toe-to-toe with Asia's best nations.
"Talagang kahit kulang talaga, nandoon 'yung laban," said Jema Galanza after bowing to the Tran Thi Thanh Thuy-powered Vietnam.
And the words uttered by her were backed by strong spurts that the Philippines had in the match.
Hot was the start of the national team in the first set, even leading by four, 8-4, before Vietnam woke up and uncorked a 13-3 blast that decided the frame.
The Philippines were just behind by two in the second period, 16-18, before the Vietnamese just unloaded a 7-1 closing blitz.
In the third, the Nationals reached set point twice, the last being at 29-28 off a Tots Carlos block, but Vietnam ended the match with three straight points.
"Kinulang man pero ang dami naman natutunan talaga," shared Galanza, the team's leading scorer with 13.
Despite the loss and the other challenges Creamline has faced, including Alyssa Valdez's late scratch due to dengue, the suddenly-PH representatives won't back down.
The Cool Smashers were also without Risa Sato due to health reasons. They also missed captain Jia De Guzman and head coach Sherwin Meneses.
"Same pa rin naman ('yung mood) wala naman magbabago, walang madadown kasi alam naman namin 'yung bawat isa," said Galanza.
"Saka kumbaga gamay namin 'yung isa't isa kaya magaan talaga din sa loob."
The Philippines will next battle against five-time AVC champion China on Tuesday, 7 pm.
