Disrupted by a last-minute meltdown, Alas Pilipinas Men’s team saw their FIVB World Championships campaign come to a close after succumbing to world No. 16 Iran, 25-21, 21-25, 25-17, 23-25, 20-22, on Thursday night, September 18, at the Mall of Asia Arena.
After consecutive errors in the first and a blowout loss in the third, the Iranian squad came alive when it mattered most, going back and forth with the Filipino team before pulling away late in the final frame with consistency in serving and blocking to get the last laugh.
This loss for Alas dropped their standing to a 1-2 slate, while Iran improved their record to 2-1 to top Pool A alongside Tunisia and advance straight to the knockout stage as the lone Asian squad left in the competition.
Initially, the Philippines were already all smiles when Kim Malabunga denied a spike to turn the score to 20-18, thinking they had already secured a Round of 16 slot in the tournament over their taller foes.
However, a crucial challenge from Iran showed that there was a net touch before the ball hit the floor, which equalized the game to 19–all and extended the winner-take-all fifth set.
From thereon, the three-time Asian Games champion Iran took over and stormed through the dazed Filipino squad as they went lockdown on defense, denying Marck Espejo’s swing from the right wing to seal the deal.
Earlier, the Philippines clung to a comfortable 2-1 set advantage as both Bryan Bagunas and Leo Ordiales went on fire from the attacking department.
But with Iran finding their groove in the final moments, they simply faltered in the endgame and failed to capitalize on multiple match points, ultimately falling flat over the more experienced champions of Asia.
In the loss, team captain Bagunas starred once more, tallying 22 points built on 18 attacks, three blocks, and an ace, while Ordiales finished with 21 markers.
Additionally, Espejo and Malabunga also made their presence felt and contributed 15 and 10, respectively.
Moreover, Joshua Retamar showcased stellar playmaking with 42 excellent sets, while Josh Ybañez displayed great floor defense with nine excellent receptions and six digs.
Nevertheless, Alas Men keep their heads held high despite the early exit as they leave the tournament with a historic win under their belts against Egypt via a four-set stunner last Tuesday.
