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| photo (c) Jerome Ascano |
THE Petron-Philippine Superliga All-Star eased the pain of defeat after being knocked out of contention in the Thai-Denmark Super League in Bangkok, downing the Hong Kong national team, 25-22, 25-15, 25-20, in a friendly match on Sunday.
Finally pressure-free, the Filipinas managed to play with less errors and made better receptions.
"We came into the game without any pressure," said coach George Pascua.
"We reduced our errors and our services were very impressive. Obviously, we were the better team against the Hong Kong team in that tuneup match."
The PSL selection went winless in three matches in the Thai-Denmark Super League, losing its opening match in four sets to Bangkok Glass, which was bannered by American import Jordanne Scott and Thai stars Pleumjit Thinakaow and Pornpun Guedpard.
The Filipinas suffered a straight-sets defeat to Idea Khonkaen followed by another four-set loss to 3BB Nakhonnont.
The PSL is planning to send the selection to Hong Kong on June 12 for more friendly matches as an Independence Day gift to thousands of Filipino workers there.
Hong Kong team manager Li Yuk Hing said they have a similar playing style with the Filipinos.
However, his players still lack the endurance of their foes since they were assembled only two months ago, with majority being called up from the youth team.
"The PSL stars also jelled better compared to our team," said Li through an interpreter.
The PSL stars will have a day off on Monday before returning to Manila on Tuesday. The final phase of the PSL Invitational, featuring three local teams and Thai heavyweight Est Cola, begins on April 7.
Source: Spin.ph
