MANILA, Philippines — Bryan Bagunas lit the sparklers early. Then everyone on Alas Pilipinas joined the explosive display.
Two hours and 12 minutes later, the Philippines ended its run of futility in the Southeast Asian V-League with a 25-21, 25-22, 18-25, 25-23 victory over Vietnam last Friday.
The sizable crowd at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium celebrated as Bagunas sealed the victory with a thunderous strike. The victory was a vengeance of sorts for the heartbreaking straight-sets loss by Alas Women to the Vietnamese in the Challenger Cup in May.
It was also a huge statement win for Alas Pilipinas and an auspicious start under Italian coach Angiolino Frigoni.
Bagunas helped put Alas Pilipinas in control with his crisp serves and even more explosive attacks, then Frigoni let the young ones shine. Michaelo Buddin and Louie Ramirez did not disappoint.
The Philippines was scheduled to face Indonesia while Vietnam battles Thailand yesterday at the same venue.