Philippines defeats China for first win in VTV Cup

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines finally attained its first win in the 2015 VTV International Women’s Volleyball Cup after losing its first 3 matches, defeating China’s Nanjing University in 5 sets, 18-25, 20-25, 25-19, 25-19, 15-12 on Tuesday, July 28, in Bac Lieu, Vietnam.

It was a crucial, morale-boosting win for the Filipinas, who entered the game having lost to Vietnam, Thailand’s Under-23 team, and the April 25 sports club from North Korea – in 3-set sweeps.

Like the Philippines, Nanjing also entered Tuesday’s contest going a total 0-9 in sets in their first 3 games. 

The Philippines, 1-3 with 2 points, is currently slotted in fifth place in the tournament standings. Only the top 4 will advance to the semifinal round, which will take place on Friday, July 31.

Led by Aby Marano and Dindin Santiago-Manabat, the team will be back in action on Wednesday, July 29, when they take on the Liaoning Brilliance Auto women’s volleyball team of China. 

Liaoning is currently 3-0 in the tournament, and has yet to lose a single set. Later tonight, they are scheduled to take on Vietnam, who is also undefeated in 3 contests so far. 

Editor’s note: The report initially stated that the Philippines had won the first two sets before losing the third and fourth and winning the fourth. The Philippines was down two sets before winning the next 3.

– Rappler.com