By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA
For Marck Espejo, nothing beats securing a historic first win on volleyball’s grandest stage – the FIVB Men’s World Championship.
Despite a career filled with countless accolades including MVP trophies, collegiate championships and other form of honors and respect that acknowledge his volleyball prowess, the hard-hitting outside spiker said their breakthrough 29-27, 23-25, 25-21, 25-21 triumph over Egypt in the pool stage is by far the biggest and most important.
“Feeling ko eto na yung pinaka-best game namin sa buong buhay namin,” said Espejo.
Indeed, the Filipinos made a statement on Tuesday night, Sept. 16. Up against the African champion, which ranked No. 23 prior to the start of the tournament, the 82nd-ranked Filipinos delivered killer blows on all angles and provided solid defense to secure a landmark victory and make their presence felt in the competition.
Espejo erupted for 13 points in that electrifying match, anchored on nine attacks and three blocks — the last of which came at the perfect moment, a stunning rejection of Egypt’s Abdelrahman Elhossiny that sealed the victory and sent the Mall of Asia Arena into frenzied celebration.
Espejo said the win was also a testament that Filipinos have what it takes to compete against the world’s best.
“Meron po talagang ibubuga ‘yung Philippines. Hindi man ganun katangkad or kasing-physically fit man, pero I hope na itong hosting ng world championship, makakuha pa po ng mga gustong maglaro ng volleyball and hopefully, mag-represent ng Philippines kapag wala na kami dito,” he said.
Team captain Bryan Bagunas, perhaps the biggest star of the night after exploding for a match-high 25 points, readily agreed.
“Ito na siguro yung simula para ipakita namin na hindi lang kami hanggang sa SEA (Southeast Asian) Games or Asian Games. Na kaya nating makipag-compete sa magagaling na teams sa world championship,” he said.
It may be just a group stage victory, but the Nationals are relishing the moment. After all, they are still in the running for a spot into the next round.
Then it will be back to business as they try to shoot for the stars.
If they succeed, then that will be the biggest achievement by any national volleyball team.
