Japan escapes Czechia, keeps perfect 6-0 record

Japan celebrates after winning vs Czechia in the VNL Women’s Week 2 in Pasig City. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Japan escaped Czechia’s tough third-set challenge and scored a 25-15, 25-23, 27-25 win to stay unbeaten in six games in the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) Women’s Week 2 on Friday at Philsports Arena.

Czechia reached the set point, but a crucial successful floor touch challenge by Japan mid-rally tied the third at 25-all. Yukiko Wada scored back-to-back kills to seal the win for her team and keep them on top of the standings of the 18-nation field.

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Yoshino Sato set the tone in the opening set, scoring 10 of her 21 points for their second win in Pasig City.

Japan’s Yoshino Sato goes for a hit vs Czechia defenders during a game in the VNL Women’s Week 2 in Pasig. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

“I think we were able to bounce back by using the momentum of our opponents in the second half of the game,” said SV.League MVP Sato. 

“Volleyball is very popular here in the Philippines. So we feel like we play a home game.”

Team captain Mayu Ishikawa was also instrumental with 16 points, while Wada added 13.

Japan takes on the Dominican Republic on Saturday at 4 p.m. before capping Week 2 against defending champion Italy.

Czechia, which entered Week 2 with a 3-1 record, has yet to notch a win in the Philippine leg and slid to 3-4.