Thailand knocks down women's volleyball returnees Philippines in Asian games

After 36 years of absence, the Philippines returns to the women's volleyball tournament of the Asian Games.

But alas: In its first appearance in the qualification round, the Philippines was swept by Asian volleyball powerhouse Thailand, 25-22, 25-12, 25-15, held in Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Photo courtesy of Asian Games website

The Philippines had a hot start, leading as much as 9-2 early in the first set but the Thais recovered and went on to win the first set, 25-22.

#PSCAsiadUpdates: ????????Philippine Women's Volleyball team captain @Abymarano posing with the Thailand national team as they start their campaign at the 2018 #AsianGames

Photo: @volleythai #LabanAtletangPilipino #TeamPHIsaAsianGames2018 #parasainangbayan pic.twitter.com/d8L6DoS2aC

— Philippine Sports Commission (@psc_gov) August 19, 2018

The Thais then led over the Philippines early in the second set, eventually dominating the Pinays with a 13-point set win in the second set.

The Philippines tried to recovered in the third set before the first technical time out, but the Thais continued to take control of the game, ending the third set in a 10-point margin.

The Filipina spikers will next face Japan on Tuesday. — LA, GMA News