Valiant Philippines falls to Thailand in QF, bows out of AVC contention

The Philippine women's volleyball team staged a brave stand in the third set, but ultimately fell prey to powerhouse Thailand, 18-25, 25-23, 20-25, 25-9 in the quarterfinals to bow out of the 2022 AVC Cup for Women on Saturday.

After an opening frame letdown, the courageous Filipinas shifted into a higher gear in the second set, with Michele Gumabao leading the way.

The former La Salle spiker fueled a 4-0 run that sent them to a 20-17 lead after being behind for most of the set.

Ced Domingo then went for a quick attack for the set point as Jema Galanza soared for an off-the-block hammer to equalize the game, 25-23.

The Philippines looked like it could also win the third frame, but a 5-0 closing rampage from world no. 14 Thailand capped by an ace from Hattaya Bamrungsuko gave the visitors the 2-1 set lead, 25-20.

Thailand quickly built a 16-5 cushion in the fourth as the Philippines struggled to recover and fell out of contention for the podium. 

Gumabao led the country with 13 points anchored on 11 attacks and two aces, while Tots Carlos chipped in 12 markers in the loss. 

Chatchu-on Moksri starred for the Thais with a game-high 21 points, while Pimpichaya Kokram chimed in with 14 as Thailand arranged a semifinal duel with China. 

The Philippines will still play Australia in the classification round on Sunday. —MGP/VBL, GMA News