Korea smashes Australia, closes in on volley quarters

MANILA, Philippines - Korea, banking heavily on Kim Yo-han’s tremendous spikes, humbled reigning champion Australia, 25-20, 23-25, 25-21, 25-23, to close in on a quarterfinal berth in the 15th Asian Senior Men’s Championship at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium yesterday.

Kim, the Korean cat-quick star, scored 25 kills and two blocks leading their assault against the previously unbeaten Aussie side in the tourney organized by the Philippine Volleyball Federation and sponsored by CNG Vehicles Corp. and Omnium Philippines.

The Koreans flashed awesome form in blocking, receiving and attacking as they beat the taller Aussies in a fierce showdown for their third win in as many outings in Pool D.

The Aussies closed out their elims stint with a 3-1 win-loss record.

The Koreans and the Aussies automatically make the quarters should Korea beats Lebanon in their crucial tiff at 2 p.m. today at the same venue.

Yun Bong-Woo, Kang Dong-Jin and Park Jun-Bum had significant contributions as the Koreans stopped the Australians’ romp in the event backed by the Philippine Sports Commission, the Philippine Olympic Committee, Shakey’s, Pocari, Solar, Asics, Mikasa, Bayview Hotel, City Garden Hotel and Hyatt Hotel.

Yun accounted for 10 kills and three blocks, Kang shared 12 points and Park delivered 10.

Meanwhile, the Philippines goes up against Chinese Taipei in Pool A action at 6 p.m. today.

“Chinese Taipei is a tough team but I hope we can give them a good fight,” said PVF vice president Gener Dungo, who is also the organizing committee chairman.

“We must not be intimidated by the opposition. We just have to play our game,” said RP coach Sammy Acaylar.

The Filipinos dropped their first two games to Myanmar and Kazakhstan.

Acaylar hopes they can beat the Taiwanese to boost their confidence as they prepare for the coming Southeast Asian Games in Laos.

Chinese Taipei opened its campaign in the tourney with a 22-25, 16-25, 25-22, 25-22, 15-9 win over Myanmar.