THE Philippine women’s volleyball team achieved a resounding victory against Uzbekistan, prevailing in four sets with scores of 25-14, 13-25, 25-18, and 25-18 on Sunday (25 June 2023).

The match took place at the Tridharma Sports Hall in Gresik, East Java, Indonesia, marking the Philippines’ successful quest for seventh place in the AVC Challenge Cup for Women.

The Filipino volleybelles demonstrated their prowess in the opening set, overwhelming their Uzbek counterparts. However, Uzbekistan retaliated strongly in the second set, resulting in a tied score of 1-1.

Undeterred, the Philippine team seized control in the third set, once again taking the lead. In the fourth set, they swiftly established a 3-0 advantage after consecutive aces from Faith Nisperos. The Filipinos maintained their momentum, attaining a 14-10 lead.

Although Uzbekistan managed to narrow the gap to two points at 13-15, the Filipinos responded with a remarkable display of skill.

A series of power plays, including an impressive down-the-line hit from Aizo Maizo-Pontillas and a well-executed off-speed attack from Erika Raagas, propelled the Philippine team to a commanding 24-16 advantage, reaching match point.

While the Uzbeks saved two match points, Ezra Madrigal sealed the victory for the Philippines with a swift and decisive attack, securing a seventh place in the tournament.

Leading the charge for the Philippine team, under the guidance of coach Jorge Edson Souza de Brito, were Nisperos and Shaya Adorador, who contributed 17 and 13 points, respectively. Maizo-Pontillas also made a notable impact with 12 points, while Madrigal added nine points.

The Philippine team, composed of the Akari Chargers core, displayed exceptional teamwork and skill throughout the tournament, prevailing over Macau and India in addition to their victory against Uzbekistan.