TEAM Cebu City’s Jade Becaldo and Edward Ybañez, were outsmarted by the Iranian team, 19-21, 13-21, to bomb out of the 15th Samila-Chang AVC Tour-Samile Open in Songkhla, Thailand.
Becaldo and Ybañez used up their energy in the first set to have a close match against the seed No. 12 team.
“Nahurot among kusog sa first set. We gave them a good match, though. We almost beat them,” said Becaldo.
Becaldo of the University of the Visayas (UV), the reigning National Nestea Beach Volleyball Champion, gave out impressive digs that brought the team to a tie with 19-19 in the first set, but Iran just came out stronger scoring the next two points to take the set.
According to Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) beach volleyball consultant Eric LeCain, that the first set was a back and forth battle.
“Iran is a bigger and stronger team but the Cebu guys were very clever in the opening set. We had practiced that morning on serving, which was a big factor,” said LeCain.
LeCain added that the team came back from five points down to tie it at 19-19 then they had small mistake.
“Many coaches saw the game and complimented the team. Iran is a seeded team,” said LeCain.
LeCain added that one important thing they gained from the experience is the improvement of Becaldo and Ybañez’s partnership—an important factor in beach volleyball.
Becaldo seconded this, saying the experience was overwhelming and that their tandem is getting better.
Despite the loss, Cebu City Sports Commission Chairman Edward Hayco was very impressed
with how the team performed in their debut in the AVC Tours. LeCain said they are eyeing joining the Asian beach championships in June.