MANILA – Bryan Bagunas ignited a fiery start for Alas Pilipinas, leading to a hard-fought 25-21, 25-22, 18-25, 25-23 victory over Vietnam in the Southeast Asian Volleyball League opener at Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Friday (16 Aug 2024).
The Philippines will face Indonesia next, while Thailand will go up against Vietnam today, Saturday (17 Aug 2024) in the event organized by the Philippine National Volleyball Federation.
The win marked the Philippines’ first triumph in the SEA V League, breaking a streak of disappointing results. The electrifying atmosphere at the stadium was a far cry from the heartbreak of May’s Challenger Cup, where the Alas women’s team fell to Vietnam.
Under the guidance of Italian coach Angiolino Frigoni, the team delivered a statement win, with Bagunas scoring 19 points, including 15 attacks, two blocks, and two aces. Michaelo Buddin and Louie Ramirez also shone as the Philippines rebounded after last year’s winless run in the league.
Frigoni emphasized the importance of readiness and team effort: “Everybody has to be ready. We play with the players, not with the name on the shirt. The players have to play. It doesn’t matter if it’s their first time on the national team.”
In other matches, Thailand started strong, defeating two-time champion Indonesia in straight sets, 25-21, 25-23, 25-20.
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