Alas Girls post breakthrough win vs Mexico

Alas Pilipinas Girls pulled off a shocker with a stunning 25-19, 20-25, 25-19, 25-23 victory over Mexico in the FIVB Volleyball Girls U17 World Championship on Saturday (Manila time) at the Liceo Particular Mixto San Felipe in Chile.

Caera Celis led the way with 24 points on 22 attacks, a block and an ace in the Philippines’ first win, which caught the world’s attention.

Celis’ scoring spree was backed by Xyz Rayco’s 15 markers on 12 attacks, two aces and a block as Alas Girls turned up their effort on floor defense for better transition to offense.

The Filipinas won a gamble by sacrificing frontline depth for defensive consistency, fielding wing spiker Nadeth Herbon as libero. The team’s dynamo provided an instant shot of adrenaline to what was an anemic floor coverage in the opener against China last Friday.

It yielded better passing and more efficient attacking, with Celis, Rayco and two others hitting double figures as Alas Pilipinas Girls became only the second Philippine team to score a win in a world championship after the Bryan Bagunas-led squad in last year’s FIVB Men’s World Championship.

Coach Edwin Leyva noted that while Herbon showed flashes of brilliance up front against China, the staff believed her defensive instincts would be more valuable in stabilizing the backline. Herbon started the match with Frances Ramos sharing duties, while Taj Tevez was moved to the offensive side of the rotation.

Chosen for her high energy as much as her skills, Herbon is now embracing the role switch. The feeling was much different on the bus ride from the hotel to the venue.

“It was a tense ride, I couldn’t stop thinking about what I needed to do,” said Herbon, who even contributed on offense by teeing up Celis and Bulandres at the net.

“I’m happy because I think I did what was needed on the court. I’m happy my teammates are pleased with the result. I’ll embrace this role all the way to the end,” she said.

Jhaynna Bulandres scored 10, seven from attacks and three from the service line.

Madele Gale had five of the team’s total eight blocks as Alas Pilipinas steadied the ship after a shaky start and improved to a 1-1 win-loss record tied with Mexico, Venezuela and Peru.

Defending champion China holds a 2-0 card while Tunisia is winless in two outings. The top four teams from each pool march on to the next round.

Alas Girls face Tunisia today before the tournament takes a break. They will then face Peru on Tuesday and wrap up pool play Wednesday against Venezuela.