In their previous meeting in the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup, Philippines defeated Chinese Taipei, 92-81.
The Gilas Pilipinas women’s team failed to win register a second straight victory against their Taiwanese counterparts when they met anew during the opening day of the 42nd edition of the William Jones Cup. After falling behind early, Coach Pat Aquino’s wards clawed their way back into game against Chinese Taipei Blue, but late miscues ultimately resulted in an 89-85 defeat on Saturday at the Taipei Peace Basketball Hall.
The Filipino side was led by Janine Pontejos, who scored 19 points, and Gilas newcomer Kacey Dela Rosa as she finished with 17 markers and 10 rebounds.
It was a tough loss but as the Gilas Pilipinas Women's Facebook page posted, a lot of lessons were learned. And with that, they seem ready to move forward.
As for the fans, the loss drew different reactions. Some sent their message of support, while others got pretty riled up.
Take Facebook user Ernesto Rosario, who pointed out the advantage of the host nation.
“Hirap manalo sa host team kung close ang score,” he posted.
Netizen Paul John Agdagdag meanwhile, was a little more positive with his takeaway.
“Kaunting push pa, kaya nila ‘yan. More tournaments pa na salihan ang girls,” he wrote.
Gilas fan Ronnie Granja lamented seeing the team without Vanessa de Jesus, who is currently nursing a knee injury. VDJ was crucial in the team's success in the last FIBA Women's Asia Cup, where Gilas beat Chinese Taipei.
“Iba pa rin kapag nandyan si De Jesus,” stressed Granja.
Another supporter in Ambi Cutler was still impressed with Coach Pat and his charges as she egged them on to get the win in the following contest.
“Great job! Next time, we’ll get the win,” she said.
Another layer of challenge is that fans are also struggling to find ways to watch the games live to support the women's squad. On Instagram, the Gilas squad assured the fans that it’s now looking for other options to livestream the matches other than Twitch, believed to be the only service available in Taiwan.
The ladies in Gilas Blue will have a shot at redeeming themselves later today, Sunday, as they go up against Iran at 3 p.m.
(GM)