MANILA – The Philippines closed the preliminary round with a huge 3-0 (25-18, 25-13, 25-17) win against South Korea to advance in the quarterfinals of the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Cup for Women at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City on Thursday night.
Outside hitter Jessica Margaret Galanza scored 12 points while opposite hitter Diana Mae Carlos chipped in 11 as the Philippines finished the preliminary round with a 2-2 card and finished third behind defending champion China and Vietnam in Pool A.
China earlier notched its fourth victory at the expense of Iran, 3-1 (24-26, 25-19, 25-10, 13).
Team captain Wang Yifan sizzled with 25 points, including nine in the dominant second quarter after losing the first set. Middle blocker Wang Wenhan had 13 points and opposite hitter Zhuang Yushan added 12 points.
Elahe Poor Sakeh Shahdesari had 12 attacks and one block for the Iranians, who slid to fourth place with one win and three losses.
"These two wins are amazing for Philippine volleyball, it’s history—beating Iran and Korea for the last 30 years or more,” said Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Ramon “Tats” Suzara.
Celine Domingo had four attacks, three blocks and two service aces, Michele Theresa Gumabao contributed four spikes and three blocks while Lorie Lyn Bernardo had two service aces.
Outside hitter Kim Seyul led the Koreans with eight attacks and one block. Team captain Hwang Jimin had seven spikes and one service ace and opposite hitter Choi Hosun delivered five spikes and two service aces. (PNA)
