MANILA, Philippines – What a historic win for the Philippines, defeating the defending champions Thailand and going to the Finals round in the men's volleyball of the 30th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games!
It was a five sets semis round, 17-25, 25-20, 23-25, 27-25, 17-15, on Sunday, December 8 at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City where Pinoy spikers, world ranked no. 131, dethroned Team Thailand to set their first gold medal match in 42 years.
The biggest upset in history to world no. 39 Thais was led by ace wing spikers Bryan Bagunas and Marck Espejo. Spectacular performances of middle blockers Kim Malabunga and Rex Intal, outside hitter Ranran Abdilla and UAAP sophomore setter Joshua Retamar brought big chance of winning for the Philippines.
Pinoy spikers will face Team Indonesia, who gave them a heartbreaking sweep during the preliminary round, in the finals on Tuesday, December 10. Meanwhile, Thailand and Myanmar will battle for bronze medal on the same day.
— The Summit Express
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| Congratulations, Philippines' men's volleyball team! Photo Credit: ABS-CBN Sports |
It was a five sets semis round, 17-25, 25-20, 23-25, 27-25, 17-15, on Sunday, December 8 at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City where Pinoy spikers, world ranked no. 131, dethroned Team Thailand to set their first gold medal match in 42 years.
The biggest upset in history to world no. 39 Thais was led by ace wing spikers Bryan Bagunas and Marck Espejo. Spectacular performances of middle blockers Kim Malabunga and Rex Intal, outside hitter Ranran Abdilla and UAAP sophomore setter Joshua Retamar brought big chance of winning for the Philippines.
Pinoy spikers will face Team Indonesia, who gave them a heartbreaking sweep during the preliminary round, in the finals on Tuesday, December 10. Meanwhile, Thailand and Myanmar will battle for bronze medal on the same day.
— The Summit Express
