Philippine spikers try to buck tall odds vs mighty Thais

Games Saturday
(PhilSports Arena)

11 a.m. – Vietnam vs Chinese Taipei
2 p.m. – China vs Australia
5 p.m. – Iran vs Japan
8 p.m. – Philippines vs Thailand

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines will try to do the impossible as it prays for a miracle against Southeast Asian power Thailand in Saturday’s quarterfinals of the Asian Volleyball Confederation Cup at the PhilSports Arena.

The Filipinas, represented by reigning Premier Volleyball League Invitational champion Creamline, turned back Iran and Korea and finished 2-2 in Pool A to claim a spot in the quarters, where they will clash with the Thais — the Pool B No. 2 — in the main game at 8 p.m.

The triumphs over the Iranians and Koreans were a feat in itself as the Nationals never won against the two proud nations in the last three decades.

The host nation had also eclipsed its ninth-place finish in the last staging of the biennial event in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand four years ago.

But coach Sherwin Meneses said they hunger for more.

“Hopefully, we can pull this one off because we know Thailand, they are a very strong team. But the ball is round,” said Meneses.

But beating the Thais, the two-time Asian champions and a Southeast Asian Games dynasty, is easier said than done especially after the country were routed by the latter on their way to last year’s Hanoi Games.

The Filipinas are expected to draw strength from the crowd, which is expected to troop the Pasig venue to cheer for an upset victory.

“Last time in men’s, we were able to win it at this same venue. Hopefully, in women’s we can also win,” said Meneses.

The other quarters pairings pit five-time AVC Cup titlist China versus Australia at 2 p.m. Japan against Iran at 5 p.m. and wild card Vietnam versus Chinese Taipei at 11 a.m.