Lao and Vietnamese men's volleyball teams defeated their respective Thai and Vientiane opponents on the first day of the three-nation Volleyball Friendship Tournament.
The tournament is taking place in Vientiane from November 4-6.
Laos narrowly beat Thailand in three of five sets with a score of 25-20, 25-23 and 25-22 in the first game played yesterday morning.
Vietnam beat the Vientiane players with a score of 25-17, 25-17 and 25-16.
Lao Volleyball Federation President Phengsangouane Chounlamany said at the opening ceremony that the tournament aimed to test the preparation and readiness of the competition venue and staff.
This would ensure the organisation of volleyball matches played at the SEA Games next month would meet international standards.
“The tournament is also a chance for our players to practise so they are better prepared to compete in the SEA Games,” Mr Phengsangouane said.
Federation staff had organised the competition very well considering it was their first experience of such matches, he said.
There had been a few small problems but the federation would work to remedy these in the coming days.
The federation reported they had trained their staff prior to the SEA Games and the tournament would be a valuable experience for them ahead of the main event.
The federation believes the men's volleyball team will be 100 percent fit. The players have promised to learn as much as possible from the tournament in a bid to improve themselves for the SEA Games.
Laos has taken part in previous SEA Games held in Vietnam and Thailand , but without much success.
This time, with Laos hosting the games, local players are practising hard to go further in the competition.
Federation Secretary Sichanh Chittapanya said “We have to accept that the opposition is professional, not amateur, so their skills and tactics might be much better. But this time is different so, who knows, we might get a medal in the SEA Games this year.”
“After this tournament we will know more about what to expect at the games and the extent of our ability to go through to the business end of the competition.”
Today's schedule sees Vietnam up against Thailand and Laos take on the Vientiane team.
By Souknilundon Southivongnorath
Vientianetimes
