Manila, Philippines, May 29, 2024 – India took fifth place in the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup for Women after winning in straight sets, 3-0 (25-17, 25-16, 25-11) against Iran.
The Wednesday afternoon’s match at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum offered as repeat of India’s feat in the Preliminary Round, as they also defeated Iran in straight sets in Pool A.
India ran a solid game with Soorya making the most out of the middle attack. She posted 15 points to lead all scorers on the board.
“To be honest, we were sad that we didn’t finish well in our Pool, but today we got back that feeling of happiness that we could win the fifth place match. My team played very well today, with the help and the support of the coaches,” Soorya said in an interview.
Anagha Radnakrishnan (13 points) and Anusree Kambrath Poyilil (10 points) contributed in double digits in the victory.
Iran looked to its usual scorers like captain Aytak Salamat and Hedieh Taleifarkhondeh, but they seemed unable to establish their own tempo. They could pass the ball around and set their hitters but they were not making the much-needed decisive attacks.
India continued to capitalize on Soorya’s smarts when it came to playing the middle game. She has established this element of her game not only in the match, but all throughout the championship.
“I think this comes with my experience in the team, but of course, all of my teammates support me. They are the reason why I can have this kind of role to help in scoring,” she said.
Overall, Soorya and her team will look back to the Manila meet as unforgettable one.
“The Philippines fans are very cool and very supportive. I remember when we played against Australia, they were cheering for us. That was huge for us. We promise to come back stronger and better than this,” she said.
India made it to the Final Four in 2023 in Indonesia, but failed to make it to the podium. Iran likewise downgrade their previous performance, from 5th place in Surabaya to 6th place in Manila.
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