By MARK REY MONTEJO
Thailand’s Nakhon Ratchasima Qmin C held its ground in the face of PLDT’s determined chase to eke out a pulsating 26-24, 25-20, 20-25, 20-25, 15-9 win and remain unscathed in the 2025 AVC Women’s Champions League at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City Tuesday, April 22.
The Thai spikers lost steam after winning the first two sets, but managed to regroup in the deciding fifth set that saw them shatter an 8-all count behind a telling 6-1to surge ahead.
Their win was somehow helped by PLDT’s errors to the chagrin of their supporters.
Despite the loss – their first in two games — PLDT still secured its spot in the quarterfinals where it faces the streaking Zhetysu VC of Kazakhstan Thursday, April 24, at the same venue.
With Nakhon claiming the top seed in Pool D, it will tangle with the Creamline Cool Smashers on the same day.
Anyse Smith starred once again for the six-time Thai League champion with 16 points on 13 attacks, two blocks and one ace, while Evangelia Chantava listed 11 points.
Savannah Davison poured in 21 points off 18 kills, two blocks and one ace while veteran Cuban hitter Wilma Salas added 16 and Kim Dy 10.
Petro Gazz, meanwhile, is battling Hong Kong’s Hip Hing Volleyball Team at posting time.
