PALEMBANG -- The Philippine sepak takraw national team was the latest contingent to make its debut at the 2018 Asian Games in Palembang, Indonesia on Thursday.
All nine participating players had no prior experience playing in the quadrennial meet but they showed no first game jitters in their opening contest against Vietnam in men's team doubles action, winning in three regus, 2 -1. The Philippines dropped the first regu but was able to claim the last two decisively to get the victory.
In Sepak Takraw competition at the Games, a team needs to get two sets to win a match, then two matches to win a regu, and two regus, to win the game. Against Vietnam, the Philippines cruised in the last two regus, winning the last four sets.
"We didn't expect (to win) because Vietnam is strong," said Rheyjey Ortouste. "But we helped each other out and focused for the country and for our loved ones. Because we want to get that medal."
Ortouste and his teammates admitted that they were a bit overwhelmed with the gravity of the Asian Games. Even though a number of them have already international experiences under their belt, including SEA Games exposure, their mettle was tested under the bright lights of the Ranau Hall inside the Jakabaring Sports City.
They met an early challenge when they faced host country Indonesia in their second game of the day. The fans inside the hall were not shy in cheering and shouting for their home team.
Despite its best efforts, the Philippines lost in two straight regus against Indonesia, virtually ending the game in stunning fashion. The two teams continued for a third regu even though Indonesia was already the victor for seeding purposes in the preliminary round.
Indonesia already had the game in hand but the Philippines showed no quit, as it won the last regu in two straight sets.
"All I can say about the game is we played with heart and mind for the country. That fight was for our loved ones," feeder John Jeffrey Morcillos said about their loss against Indonesia. "It was tough but of course, we helped each other even if it's our first time to play in the Asian Games. There was the dedication to win."
The Philippines' victory over Vietnam in the morning proved to be critical. Vietnam won its second game of the day versus Japan, which the Philippines will face tomorrow.
"It's unfortunate that we lost to Indonesia," shared coach Hector Memarion. "If we won, we could have topped the bracket."
If the Filipinos win over the Japanese, then they'll clinch the top seed and have a guaranteed slot in the semifinals.
"Our athletes do everything at a hundred percent. They give it their all in their play," said Memarion. "They really want to win. You can expect that in their next game, they'll work even harder. I assure you that."
The Philippines will take on Japan tomorrow in the men's team doubles division.