Philippine bench at the Asean Grand Prix in Thailand. Photo by Marc Reyes
NAKHON RATCHASIMA, Thailand — The Philippines made Thailand work hard for the victory that didn’t turn out to be as easy as expected Saturday, yielding a 25-13, 25-21, 23-25, 25-20, in the Asean Volleyball Grand Prix at Terminal 21 Mall here.
Just as the Thais, Southeast Asian Games champions since 1995, were coasting for victory, the Nationals sent in a new blend of lineup made up of rookie Eya Laure, Majoy Baron, Jovelyn Gonzaga, Aby Marano and to steal the third set.
The Philippines was still in the thick of the fight in the fourth, keeping the tie close until the hosts broke a 13-all deadlock with a 6-0 run that tilted the balance for them.
Kalei Mau topscored with 12 points, while Ces Molina added 11 for the Philippines which also got eight points from Laure mostly in the thrilling third set.
Marano banged in nine markers while Baron and Gonzaga had seven each.
The Philippines will take on Vietnam on Sunday to round up its campaign here.