RP takes on Myanmar as Asian volley begins

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines hopes to come out strong against an untested Myanmar squad as it opens its bid in 15th Asian Men’s Senior’s Volleyball Championship unfolding today at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium inside the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

The hosts said they have no idea on their rivals’ strength and style but are ready for any surprises in their 7 p.m encounter, one of the six matches lined up for the opener of the week-long tournament held in two venues.

“We really don’t have any idea against them (Myanmar), but the boys are ready for any surprise,” said RP team assistant coach Edgar Barroga. “I’m sure it would be an exciting first match.”

The tournament will be formally opened at 6 p.m.

In other matches, Sri Lanka takes on Hong Kong at 12 noon, Maldives battles Korea at 2 p.m. while China squares off with Vietnam at 4 p.m.

Over at the San Andres gym, defending champion Australia meets the Lebanon at 4 p.m. while Indonesia and India collide in the 2 p.m. opener.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Volleyball Federation (PVF) will also host the eighth Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) General Assembly at the Manila Bayview Hotel.

Veteran Dante Alinsunurin and Reny John Balse head the RP squad that includes libero Clarence Esteban, middle blocker Sylvester Honrade, Niño Jeruz, setter Michael Cariño, Edjet Mabbayad, Jeffrey Malabanan, Christian Fernandez, Raffy Mosuela, Chris Macasaet, Jessie Lopez, Edcer Penetrante and Mark Lee.