By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
The Alas Pilipinas men’s national volleyball team won the bronze medal during the recently concluded Southeast Asia Volleyball League Leg 1 on August 18, 2024, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
After splitting their first two games when they won over Vietnam in their opening game and dropped the next against Indonesia, the Filipinos wrapped up their campaign with a third-place finish following a loss at the hands of Thailand, 26-28, 14-25, 16-25.
Despite the sweeping loss, there were still positive notes to look after as Alas came near to snatching the first set, only losing by two points when they reached the tiebreaker.
The Thais displayed a more consistent attack during the final five possessions of the first set, ending the opener with a momentum-clinching win to take an early 1-0 lead.
However, after the heartbreak in the first frame, the Filipinos failed to regain their footing and received an avalanche from Thailand, limiting them to a combined 30 points in the last two sets.
Aside from their errors, Alas seemed to lose gas in the final two sets, succumbing to a more determined Thailand team who despite being already assured of a gold medal, still went all-out against the PHL representatives.
The Filipinos were also dealt a huge blow after Bryan Bagunas, their leading scorer, failed to suit up in the game due to a knee injury he suffered against Indonesia.
Noel Kampton, took his place in the starting lineup, and the De La Salle University (DLSU) outside hitter delivered for Alas as he reached double figures in the offensive department with 10 points derived from nine successful attacks.
Meanwhile, Alas’ 1-2 punch of Michaelo Buddin and Leo Ordiales were limited to a combined 14-point output in the loss.
The PHL men’s national squad will still have a chance for a better finish as the SEA V. League Leg 2 will start on August 23, 2024, to be held in Indonesia.
