Leo Ordiales (17) and the rest of Alas Pilipinas give Pakistan a tough challenge at the AVC Men’s Nations Cup in Bahrain.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Alas Pilipinas’ gallant stand led by Leo Ordiales wasn’t enough as it yielded to Pakistan, 18-25, 12-25, 25-18, 22-25, in the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Men’s Nations Cup on Tuesday night (Manila time) in Manama, Bahrain.

After getting dominated by Pakistan in the first two sets, Ordiales delivered the much-needed spark, scoring 10 of his game-high 22 points in the third set to extend the match.

SCHEDULE: Alas Pilipinas at the AVC Men’s Nations Cup in Bahrain

Trailing 19-22 in the fourth set, Ordiales conspired with his National University teammates Buds Buddin and Peng Taguibolos to cut it down to one, 21-22. 

Alas had a chance to tie the game after Ali Usman Faryad’s spike was initially called outside, but Pakistan’s challenge showed that the ball hit the fingertip of Lloyd Josafat as it took a 23-21 lead.

Another challenge this time benefited Alas Pilipinas, which pulled within 22-23 on a Buddin attack hit. But that turned out to be the Philippines’ final point as Pakistan closed it out courtesy of Musawer Khan and a Buddin error.

Alas needs to win against Chinese Taipei on Wednesday to advance to the quarterfinal round.

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Ordiales impressed with 15 kills, five blocks, and two aces. Buddin and Steven Rotter contributed 10 points each, while Josafat and Taguibolos added five apiece.

His stellar play came timely with Alas star Marck Espejo sitting out the majority of the match after suffering a left ankle injury in the opening set.

Espejo was limited to a point after coming off a 30-point explosion against Thailand to complete a sweep in the Invitationals.

Musawer, Murad, and Afaq Khan had 14 points each to lead Pakistan.