Alas girls pull rug from under Iranians

MANILA, Philippines — Alas Pilipinas open its world championship bid with a 25-19, 19-25, 25-23, 25-18 drubbing of Iran yesterday in the Asian Volleyball Confederation Girls’ Under-18 Championship at the Terminal 21 Hall in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.

The Filipinas, composed mainly of players from reigning Palarong Pambansa champion National University, dug deep to survive the feisty Iranians  in this weeklong meet that stakes four spots to the World U19 Championship next year.

The triumph over Iran puts Alas, sent by the Philippine Olympic Committee and bankrolled by the Philippine Sports Commission, in the right direction.

Xyz Ellen Rayco led the way with 19 points on 14 kills, three blocks and two service aces while Ma. Ellanie Lorraine Gonzalvo scattered 15 hits laced with 12 spikes and two aces.

Jhaynna Love Bulandres and Adelaine Terese Agustin added nine points apiece for the team that recently nailed a bronze medal in the 23rd Princess Cup also staged in Korat.