Alas Pilipinas makes history! Bronze medal secured in dominant victory over Australia
The Philippine women’s national volleyball team, Alas Pilipinas, etched their names in history books! They capped off their incredible run at the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup with a dominant 25-23, 25-15, 25-7 victory over Australia in the bronze medal match.
This momentous victory marks a historic first for the Philippines. For the first time ever, the country boasts an Asian-level volleyball medal. The passionate Filipino fans at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum erupted with joy as Alas Pilipinas secured their rightful place on the podium.
Building upon their previous victory in the opening match against Australia, Alas Pilipinas displayed unwavering dominance throughout the bronze medal encounter. Their resilient defense and powerful offense proved too much for their opponents. This convincing win ensures their best-ever finish (bronze medal) in any AVC tournament in 63 years, surpassing their previous records.
The success of Alas Pilipinas can be attributed to a stellar team performance. Angel Canino, Sisi Rondina, Eya Laure, and Thea Gagate emerged as key contributors, showcasing a well-balanced attack led by the talented setter Jia de Guzman.
Canino spearheaded the offensive effort with 14 points, all but one coming from powerful attacks. Rondina provided valuable support with 11 spikes and two aces, while Laure bounced back from their previous match with a solid 10-point performance. Gagate dominated the net, contributing four blocks alongside her 10 points. Fifi Sharma also had a valuable contribution with 7 points.
Despite a valiant effort, Australia couldn’t overcome the momentum of Alas Pilipinas. Caitlin Tipping led their scoring with 13 points, but their overall performance fell short against the inspired Philippine squad.
This historic achievement serves as a testament to the talent and dedication of the Philippine volleyball team. They have captured the hearts of the nation and inspired a new generation of volleyball enthusiasts.
The journey for Alas Pilipinas may be over, but their impact will be felt for years to come. This bronze medal is a significant milestone for Philippine volleyball, paving the way for future success on the international stage.
