Eczacibasi vs F2 Logistics Manila. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Eczacibasi maintained its immaculate record in the FIVB Women’s Club World Championship but dropped a set to hosts PSL-F2 Logistics Manila, 25-17, 25-17, 23-25, 14-25, Friday at Mall of Asia Arena.
Not even the hosts inspiring third set run could deter the championship pedigree of the defending champions who advanced to the semifinals with a 3-0 record.
PSL-F2 Logistics ended the group stages with a 0-3 slate.
Eczacibasi head coach Masimo Barbolini fielded in most of his bench players against PSL F2-Logistics as he prepares for their semifinal match against VakifBank Istanbul but the Italian tactician did not discount the local team’s grit and determination.
“It was important for us to get the rhythm of the competition, and because of this match we are ready for the game tomorrow and after tomorrow,” said Barbolini whose team topped Pool A with eight points.
“The Philippine defense was very important and that was what created problems for us.”
PSL-F2 Logistics surprised Eczacibasi in the third period when the hosts won their first set in the tournament much to the delight of the crowd.
This followed the decision of PSL-F2 Logistics head coach Moro Branislav to start, and end, all seven local players in the second set.
PSL-F2 Logistics tried to stay with the defending champions in the fourth set and trailed 10-9 midway through but the Turkish giants immediately restored order and built a 19-11 lead that became the foundation for its win.
Maja Ognjenovic led Eczacibasi with 23 points while Baladin Hande was not far behind with 21.
Yilmaz Gözde also finished in double digits with 16 points while captain Neslihan Demir had 10.
Imports Yevgeniya Nyukhalova and Stephanie Niemer led PSL-F2 Logistics with 10 points apiece.