By Betheena Unite
Carrying an untainted record after two outings in the 30th Southeast Asian Games, the Philippine men’s volleyball team eyes a comparatively easier route to a podium finish as they face 2017 SEA Games silver medalist Indonesia at 6 tonight at the Philsports Arena.
The Philippine men’s volleyball team prevailed against Vietnam in the 30th SEA Games volleyball thus gaining a spot in the semi-finals yesterday at the Philippine Sports Arena in Pasig City. (PHOTO/ ALVIN KASIBAN)
It will be a must-win match for the home team, national coach Dante Alinsunurin said, since a victory over Indonesia will give them a shot at avoiding an early confrontation and powerhouse defending champion Thailand in the semis.
“Una, siyempre kailangan naming makuha talaga (yung panalo against Indonesia) para makaiwas kami sa Thailand,” Alinsunurin said. “Dapat ready kami, dapat A-game talaga sa laro na yun. Hindi dapat kami mag-relax sa sitwasyon.”
The former national team member also said that the international experience of his top gunners Mark Espejo and Bryan Bagunas, who led the team in their last two games, will be crucial.
“Sana magtuloy-tuloy lang yung ginagawa nila sa team na walang nagpapataasan at nagtutulungan,” Alinsunurin said.
Local fans, Alinsunurin, are requested to come in droves to provide support.
“Sa mga naniniwala at sumusuporta sa men’s volleyball team at sa lahat ng atletang naglalaro sa SEA Games, maraming maraming salamat po. Ito lang naman yung kailangan ng men’s volleyball team, yung may magtitiwala para maipakita rin namin yung talent naming,” team captain John Vic de Guzman said.
Source: Manila Bulletin
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