Ran Takahashi and the rest of Ryujin Nippon will look to bounce-back in a big way following their opening-day defeat to Canada in the 2024 VNL Manila Leg.
Coming in as favorites in their opening match of the 2024 VNL Manila Leg, Japan was given a rude awakening after falling short against Canada in five sets, 21-25, 25-20, 15-25, 25-20, 10-15, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Tuesday, June 18.
The talented Japanese squad matched well with the feisty Canadians in terms of scoring output. However, Ryujin Nippon’s defense on the court ended up being lackluster and proved to be their demise.
This was something that outside hitter Ran Takahashi made sure to point out after their match.
“I think we have a problem [with] reception. I think we have out of the high frustration because Canada really has a nice blocking, and I think we [can] do much better,” Takahashi told reporters after the match.
“We have eyes in our solution, but we need to improve our reception,” he emphasized.
Takahashi, who finished with 13 points on nine attacks, two blocks, and two service aces, admitted to still adjusting to the team after joining Ryujin Nippon a bit later than the rest.
Nonetheless, the 22-year-old star spiker and the rest of the Japanese squad are looking to clean up their act as they ready themselves for the rest of the VNL Manila Leg.
“We [had] just one week or two weeks of practice and then I see we are not perfect now. Maybe we need more practice, and like we need more communication from each player,” said Takahashi.
No. 3 Japan will look to bounce back on Thursday, June 20, when they face the 13th-ranked Netherlands at 7:00 p.m.