MANILA — Alas Pilipinas Girls will try to end their historic world championship campaign on a winning note after Venezuela again denied them, 25-22, 25-15, 20-25, 25-22, in the classification round of the FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U17 World Championship on Saturday night (Sunday in the Philippines) in Santiago, Chile.
The four-set defeat relegated the Filipinas to the playoff for 15th and 16th places against Czechia in their final match of the tournament.
It also denied Alas Girls a measure of revenge against Venezuela, which had already beaten the Philippines in a five-set battle during the preliminary round.
After dropping the first two sets, the Filipinas refused to fold and mounted a fightback in the third frame, tightening their defense and finding enough offensive rhythm to extend the match with a 25-20 victory.
The comeback bid, however, fell short as Venezuela regained control in the fourth set and held off the Filipinas, 25-22, to seal the match.
The Philippines actually outperformed Venezuela in service aces, 11-7, and blocks, 7-5, but the South Americans’ superior firepower proved decisive as they dominated the attacking department, 59-45.
The Alas Girls also committed 24 errors compared with Venezuela’s 21.
Xyz Rayco spearheaded the Philippine offense with 15 points, including 12 attacks and one block. She also registered 12 digs and six excellent receptions.
Caera Celis provided another strong offensive showing with 14 points built on 13 attacks and one block.
Jello Mauricio contributed nine points from seven attacks, one block and one ace, while team captain Megan Yesha Hernandez, Jhaynna Bulandres and Cristina Madele Gale chipped in five points apiece.
Nadeth Faye Herbon anchored the Filipinas’ floor defense with 11 digs and six excellent receptions.
Despite being out of contention for a higher classification, Alas Pilipinas Girls still have an opportunity to close their maiden U17 world championship campaign with a victory when they battle Czechia for 15th place./PN
