Alas Pilipinas sweeps Iran, books AVC Challenge Cup semis slot

Alas Pilipinas booked a slot in the AVC Challenge Cup semifinals after sweeping Iran, 25-16, 25-13, 25-15, on Saturday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

The Philippines took advantage of an early lead in Set 3, making four straight points before Iran broke the ice. Alas, however, continued its hold of the game and led 13-4.

Iran could barely keep up with the nationals as Vanie Gandler gave the Philippines a 20-10 lead before sealing the victory. 

Angel Canino had 16 points off 11 points, three aces, and two blocks, while Sisi Rondina had 12 points as the Philippine national women's volleyball team improved to 3-0.

Aytak Salamatgharamaleki top-scored Iran with 10 points as they dropped to 1-2.

This is also the first time that the Philippines has made it to the semifinals in any edition of the AVC, according to PNVF president Ramon "Tats" Suzara.

Head coach Jorge Souza De Brito said advancing to the semis will be tough as they may strong teams like Kazakhstan or Vietnam, but this will benefit the fans and the program.

"Really, really good for the fans and good for us because we need every time to play [to increase our] level," he said.

The Philippines will face Chinese Taipei on Sunday to wrap its pool matches.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News