PVL: Kurashiki defeats Kinh Bac-Bac Ninh in invitee team clash - Thelocalreport.in

Tamaru Asaka of the guest team Kurashiki Ablaze at the PVL Invitational Conference. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Tamaru Asaka introduced the Philippines with an explosive 29-point debut as Kurashiki Ablaze defeated Kinh Bac-Bac Ninh of Vietnam, 23-25, 25-14, 25-20, 25-11, 2023 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Invitational Conference on Saturday at Philsports Arena.

In the battle of the invited teams, Kurashiki bounced back from a first-set loss as Asaka racked up 28 kills, while Yano Yukino chipped in 17 points to kick off their semifinal campaign on a high note.

“I was intimidated by his blocking. But slowly, I was able to adjust and find my rhythm,” Asaka said through a translator.

Omura Wako dished out an excellent 15 sets just playing in the first two sets before Fujimura Nana took over the playmaking in the final two frames and finished with 11 digs.

Taniguchi Saya had 10 points, while Takio Kokoro added nine markers.

“Thank you very much for inviting us to this competition. After this game, we will improve our performance,” Japanese coach Suzuki Hideo said as they battled against the Philippine PVL teams.

Kurashiki seeks his second victory against Cignal (1-2) on Monday at 4:00 p.m.

Nguyen Huong led Vietnam with 14 points built on 12 kills and two blocks, while Nguyen Oanh had four blocks to finish with 10 scores as his club fell to 0-1.

Kinh Bac-Bac Ninh seeks to rebound against PLDT (1-2) on Monday at 6:30 p.m.