Power Pinays bow to Aussies, seek revenge vs India

MANILA, Philippines – The national women’s volleyball team failed to sustain the momentum and succumbed to Australia in straight sets, 25-22, 25-15, 25-23, in the 17th Asian Seniors Women’s Volleyball Championship at the Nakhon Ratchasima in Thailand on Thursday night.

The Power Pinays fell short to stretch their winning streak to three after back-to-back wins against Sri Lanka and Myanmar and will just settle for 11th or 12th place against early tormentor India, who blew them in straight sets last week.

Related story: Power Pinays enter top 12 in Asian volleyball tourney

Nonetheless, the Nationals are off to a better ranking, coming to the league sitting at the 16th spot of Asian Volleyball Confederation.

Head coach Nes Pamilar believes that the girls are prepared to avenge their first meeting loss with India, 22-25, 24-26, 12-25.

Related story: Power Pinays yield to Indians in straight sets

"Gamay na ng setter ang spikers niya. Tapos yung injury ni Angge (Tabaquero), okay na," Pamilar confidently said. "Bukas (Friday), lalaban itong mga to."

Pamilar also advised her players to bounce back and give everything for their last match.

"Ibigay niyo na lahat! Para sa sarili niyo at para sa bansa!" he added.

The Power Pinays only had a lone double-digit scorer in the name of University of Perpetual help standout Honey Rose Tubino, who finished with 10 markers, seven from attacks and three blocks, while Wenneth Eulalio and Aiza Maizo combined for 16 markers.

Despite the loss, Dr. Ian Laurel of Philippine Volleyball Federation remains positive and told the Power Pinays to be proud of what they have achieved.

"I don't want you to feel down,” said Laurel. "You may have lost, but you made the country proud."

He added that a win against India would be meaningful and a great way to end their drive for the first time in eight years after missing international competitions.

"The trip back home will be so much sweeter if we end the campaign with a win," Laurel said.