Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, September 26, 2024 – Hosts Nakhon Ratchasima QminC VC captured the right to compete in the semifinals of the 2024 Asian Women’s Club Volleyball Championship after defeating the Philippines’ Monolith Sky Risers 3-2 (25-13, 25-21, 20-25, 22-25, 15-5).
Sasipapron Janthawisut bested all scorers with 25 points for the victory on Thursday afternoon at Chartchai Hall.
Alyssa Jae Solomon also provided a massive output of 22 points in the defeat.
Katarina Pilepic and Benoit Markenzie comprised the fortress at Nakhon Ratchasima QminC’s frontline. They stood in the way of their opponents’ attacks, denying the time or space to connect. The team converted with 6 stuff blocks in the first set alone. Add to this their unstoppable attack form, that helped carve a huge advantage for the home team.
Monolith Sky Risers needed to find a solution and switched up Arah Ella Panique for the smaller Evangeline Alinsug. The substitution worked in several sequences, with Panique frequenting the left flank, but was not enough to mount a comeback.
The Philippines club fought for every sideout even reverting to their starting hitters. They played much better, setting up captain Mhicaela Belen and Solomon from the wings. They even managed to score ahead by a few points, but the lead quickly vanished.
Markenzie added another dimension to her game, bringing in a couple of service winners to start the hosts’ scoring run.
Sasipapron likewise played in lethal form from the left side, to help close out the second set to their favor.
Monolith Sky Risers brought in a different demeanor to start off the third set, showing absolute confidence and resolve as they ran their offense. They knew they were a few inches shy against tall opponents, but they simply went to play like there was nothing to lose. They were able to line up their blocks well, garnering a good 5 points. They looked to have restarted their fill of energy, chasing the ball to keep the play, and their hopes, alive in extending the match.
The Philippines continued their quality of play in the fourth set, showing nearly flawless coverage from the backcourt. Libero Shaira Mae Jardio delivered in key rallies, digging even the sharpest and speediest of spikes. They worked all throughout to force the decider.
The home team surged to a huge lead, as they reverted to firm up their block formation. Their opponents kept running into a tight wall, to shut out any further possibility of a reverse sweep.
Match-ups and schedule for the Semifinals on Friday shall be confirmed via the Competition Page: https://asianvolleyball.net/new/2024-asian-womens-club-volleyball-championship/
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