Kurashiki Ablaze from Japan continued its winning streak, defeating Thailand’s youth-laden Est Cola, 25-20, 25-18, 23-25, 25-21, in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Invitational Conference opener at Philsports Arena in Pasig on Wednesday.
Malaysian middle blocker Cing Low Mei starred for the defending champions, delivering 22 points, including 19 attacks and three aces. The victory marked a strong start for Kurashiki, which went undefeated (6-0) in last year’s edition, where they overcame the Creamline Cool Smashers in a thrilling five-set final.
Reflecting on the win, Cing suggested that her team’s performance could improve in future matches. “I think we can gain more experience because this is our first game in the Philippines. I believe that in the second game, we can be better and better,” she said.
Kurashiki is set to face Farm Fresh tomorrow (Thursday) at 4 p.m. at the same venue.
The Ablaze dominated the first two sets but faltered in the third as Est Cola’s Sasikan Kanoiu, Sasithorn Jatta, and Natthawan Phattaisong sparked a late surge, breaking a 22-all tie to force a fourth set.
Kurashiki regrouped quickly, showcasing its championship pedigree by taking control of the fourth set and fending off the Thailand U20 squad.
“We had a bit of difficulty because they are tall and skilled as well,” said Kurashiki head coach Hideo Suzuki.
Yukino Yano, a key player from last year’s title team, added 15 points with 11 attacks, two blocks, and two aces, while also contributing 22 excellent receptions and 11 digs.
Team captain Saya Taniguchi chipped in 14 points, while Saki Tanabe and Mami Gondo tallied 11 points each for Kurashiki, which out-hit Est Cola 68-51.
Kyoka Oshima, last year’s Finals MVP, dished out 26 excellent sets and contributed three points.
On the Est Cola side, Warisara Seetaloed led with 14 points and 15 receptions, while Nattharika Wasan added 11 points in the one-hour, 51-minute match that also kicked off the PVL Reinforced Conference knockout final between unbeaten Akari and eight-time champion Creamline, as well as the battle for bronze between Cignal and PLDT.
