The Philippines made quite a first impression after it took down defending champion Thailand in straight sets, 30-28, 25-23, 25-19, in the 19th ASEAN University Games volleyball tournament in Naypyitaw, Myanmar.
The Philippine team, bannered by reigning UAAP men’s champion National University, virtually secured itself a ticket to the semifinals of the five-day event.
The Filipinos take on Malaysia on Wednesday in the final day of group play with their sights set on earning the top ranking in Pool A.
Thailand dominated Malaysia in three sets, 25-14, 25-12, 25-21. earlier.
The competition consists of six teams grouped into two pools. Only two squads per group will advance to the semis where the No. 1 team in Pool A facing the second-seed in Pool B and vice versa.
Host Myanmar, Singapore and Indonesia compose Pool B.
Two years ago, Ateneo’s men and women’s volleyball teams clinched the bronze medals.