Alas reels to second loss, misses semis

MANILA, Philippines — Alas Pilipinas blew a six-point lead in the third set and lost to three-time champion Indonesia, 25-20, 25-23, 27-25, yesterday to kiss its medal hopes goodbye in the men’s SEA V Cup at the Candon City Arena in Ilocos Sur.

Dropping the first two sets but leading 15-9 in the third on an aggressive attacking game, the Filipinos came alive but then sputtered, allowing the Indonesians a two-match sweep of Pool A and surge into the semifinals.

It sent the Nationals, in contrast, to their second straight defeat and to their worst finish in this annual meet.

The Philippines had two bronzes and four fourth-place efforts in previous editions.

The absence of Bryan Bagunas, Marck Espejo and Leo Ordiales obviously took its toll on the host team.

Cambodia, which finished with a 1-1 slate, made the semis along with Indonesia.