Kazakhstan started off their bid in Pool B with a straight-set victory, 3-0 (25-15, 25-9, 25-17) over Singapore to kick off the third edition AVC Challenge Cup for Women.
Wednesday’s opener in Manila’s historic Rizal Memorial Coliseum marked Kazakhstan’s debut in the competition, as they showcased their dominance during the match, despite the challenges they admit to.
“Usually the first match of the competition is the most difficult, with the fatigue from travel and the time differential. But these are no excuses for us to give our maximum. We need to start with a win to achieve good results,” said Kazakhstan captain Sana Anarkulova who scored 12 points.
Singapore started off by unleashing strategic service to challenge the mobility their opponents’ passing unit, but the SAVA side needed more than just serves to sustain their play. They could have capitalized more on quicker plays that could destabilize the opponents’ block formation. Instead, they suffered difficulty in orchestrating their offense.
Meanwhile, the Kazakh side enjoyed the clear advantage of their taller roster, and imposed their known strength in blocking. During rallies, they showed better composure in counter-attack.
By the second set, the Kazakhs looked unstoppable. Kristina Belova showed much momentum from the flanks, charting a match-high of 15 points. Anarkulova provided additional firepower while taking care of the backcourt when needed. Coach Rishat Gilyazutdinov enjoyed the luxury of utilizing his bench players, with the team continuing to close out with a massive lead.
Singapore improved their scoring output in the third set, showing better connection in offense. They stayed within reach as the scoreboard read 16-16, but Kazakhstan held better grip of the endgame, relying on their captain in transition plays.
“We were really keeping it tight and playing along, and thought maybe we could force another set. But the ball is round as they say and we couldn’t manage to close off to our favor,” said Singapore captain Yue Ting Lau.
“We are just happy to be here in this competition. We are really honored to join and we want to treat every game as an opportunity to get better,” she added.
On Thursday, Kazakhstan will head to a rest day on while Singapore will play against defending champions Vietnam in the match scheduled at 16:00 local time.
Anarkulova added “I have been playing for a long time in the National Team, and each time they call me for duty, I cannot say no. It is an honor to represent my country in this sport.”
“The match against Vietnam will not be an easy match for sure. But if we can connect with our blocks, we will have a good chance,” she said.
