MANILA — Alas Pilipinas Girls booked a coveted Round of 16 berth in the FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U17 World Championship despite absorbing a five-set loss to Venezuela, 19-25, 16-25, 25-22, 25-19, 11-15, on Wednesday (Philippine time) in San Felipe, Chile.
The young Filipinas completed the Pool B preliminary round with a 2-3 record, enough to advance to the knockout stage and avoid being relegated to the classification matches for 17th to 24th places.
Their reward, however, is a daunting Round of 16 showdown against unbeaten South Korea, the top team from Pool D, on Thursday, August 13.
Against Venezuela, the Philippines found itself staring at a possible straight-set defeat after dropping the first two frames, but the Alas Girls mounted a spirited fightback to capture the third and fourth sets and force a deciding fifth.
Venezuela regained its composure in the final frame, pulling away to secure the five-set victory and wrap up its pool campaign with a 3-2 record.
Caera Celis powered the Philippine offense with 24 points built on 22 attacks and two service aces. She also contributed five digs and four excellent receptions.
Xyz Ellen Rayco provided strong support with 19 points, 15 digs and three excellent receptions, while Jhaynna Bulandres chipped in eight points on six attacks and two blocks.
Cristina Madele Gale finished with six points from three attacks and three blocks, while Irish May Mahinay contributed five points, including two blocks and three aces.
Sharina Rhyza Lleses added four points, Taj Teves and Khaira Manzano had two apiece, while Jhenica Sadia contributed one.
Nadeth Faye Herbon anchored the Philippine floor defense with 20 digs and three excellent receptions.
Venezuela held a slim 58-57 advantage in attacks but imposed its presence at the net with a commanding 16-8 edge in blocks. The Venezuelans also narrowly won the service battle, 7-6, while both squads committed 25 errors.
Despite falling short in their preliminary-round finale, the Alas Girls now turn their attention to South Korea as they attempt to extend their campaign against one of the tournament’s unbeaten squads./PN
