Thais rip RP belles with power game

Southeast Asian Games champion Thailand outclassed the Philippines with its power game as it scored a 25-11, 25-9, 25-14 victory yesterday in the seventh Asian Youth Girls’ Volleyball Championship at the Philsports Arena.

The loss, the host nation’s third straight in the quarters, sent the Filipinas to a do-or-die duel with China, which edged defending champion Japan in a marathon 25-21, 25-22, 23-25, 16-25, 16-14 contest.

The Filipina spikers will need a miracle to upend China today. Another setback will leave the hosts fighting for fifth place at best.

The Thais, for their part, forged a knockout duel with the Japanese, who are hoping to bounce back from that loss to China and probably set up a rematch with their tormentors in the latter rounds.

Thailand proved overpowering in all aspects of the game – attacks, blocks, court coverage and sets – as it roared to a 17-7 lead in the opening set.

The Thais were never threatened from there.

Chuewulim Sutadta drilled in 12 hits she spiked with nine kills while Luangtonglang Wanitchaya unloaded 10, including seven on attacks for the fancied Thais.

Mikasa, Shakey’s, AT Talents Management, Thermos and the Philippine Sports Commission are the chief backers of this weeklong event.