Pasig City, Philippines, August 23, 2022 – China captured their third straight victory in Pool A of the preliminary round of the 2022 AVC Cup for Women after defeating host team Philippines 3-0, (25-16, 25-22, 25-20) in Tuesday evening’s main event at the Philsports Arena.
Wu Mengjie delivered consistent volleyball all throughout the match to tally 24 points from 23 attacks and a service ace.
China setter Sun Haiping stuck their known system of playing the tall frontline. Wu Mengjie and Zhuang Yushan enabled the wing attack to dictate the tempo of the match
The host team with its smaller line-up compensated in covering the floor, well enough to sustain some rallies against much more powerful opponents. Libero Kyla Atienza doubled up on effort. Jessica Margarett Galanza provided ample support at the backcourt, and at times, even connected on attack.
With such towering presence against them, the Philippines needed to be more crafty with their attacks. Diana Mae Carlos utilized several off-speeds to spark the host team’s offense, much to the delight of the home crowd.
A natural and usual opposite, Carlos has stepped up to the challenge of playing outside hitter.
“My teammates really helped me in playing outside hitter here in this competition. Besides, playing at home makes it easier to adjust. As a player, I cannot choose or complain about the role I am assigned to do. It is my duty to deliver what the team needs from me,” said Carlos.
China were quick to recall and revert their system, by not allowing any real surge or comeback from their opponents. They played along their known strengths, as they have prepared and trained with their eyes on the prize.
Even with three straight wins in three matches, China coach Kuang Qi leaves no room to be complacent.
“I think the satisfaction will only come once we win the championship. This is why we work hard and why we have to become stronger as we train and learn everyday,” he said.
China will head to a rest day and resume play against Iran on Thursday, August 25, at 16:00. The host team Philippines will face Iran in the main event at 19:00 on Wednesday, August 24, at the PhilSports Arena. All times local.
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