A poor start to the fifth set spelled doom for Alas Pilipinas Men in the SEA V.League Leg 2 opener against host Indonesia.
Alas Pilipinas Men came up just short in their 2025 Southeast Asian Volleyball League (SEA V.League) Leg 2 opener after faltering to host Indonesia in five sets, 19-25, 25-19, 25-21, 22-25, 8-15, at the Jakarta International Velodrome on Wednesday, July 16.
Failing to secure the victory in the fourth set, Alas Men came up flat to start in the fifth set, going down to a 0-5 deficit behind four straight service aces by the Indonesians.
With all the momentum on their side, the Leg 1 silver medalists only continued to extend their lead against the Philippine squad, going up by as many as seven points at 10-3.
Leo Ordiales and Jade Disquitado tried to spark some life into Alas Men. However, Indonesia’s lead proved to be too much to catch up as the hosts secured a 1-0 start in the tournament.
Despite the defeat, it was a much better showing for Alas after losing to Indonesia in straight sets in their final match in Leg 1 held at Candon City, Ilocos Sur.
Disquitado led the way for the national team with 20 points (16 points, one block, three aces), while Ordiales and Louie Ramirez had 16 and 12 markers, respectively.
Alas Men will look to get back on track on Friday, July 18 when they take on Cambodia.
[ALSO READ: SCHEDULE, RESULTS | Alas Pilipinas Men aim for redemption in SEA V.League Leg 2]