Thailand’s fifth straight loss in the tournament left them in 17th place with three points in the 18-team standings and at risk of relegation, reports the Bangkok Post.
Coach Kiatipong Ratchatakriengkrai fielded his strongest starting six of Pornpun Guedpard, Thatdao Nuekjang, Kaewkalaya Kamulthala, Ajcharaporn Kongyot, Sasipaporn Janthawisut and Pimpichaya Kokram.
Opposite hitter Pimpichaya was the team’s top scorer with 21 points (19 kills, 2 aces) but despite another impressive showing from the 28-year-old, the team remain winless. Outside hitter Ajcharaporn added 20 points (17 kills, 2 blocks, 1 ace).
Thatdao, who chipped in 13 points, said losing points early in the fifth set tiebreak, numerous errors and Ukraine’s strong blocking were instrumental in another heartbreaking loss.
"There were a few minor mistakes in set five. We started too slowly, making it difficult to catch up, especially when we were 0-5 down. We tried our best towards the end, reminding each other to support each other and refusing to give up, even though the score difference was significant," said the middle blocker.
"Regarding Ukraine, we didn’t underestimate them. When they played against Japan, they also played a long game [Ukraine lost 1-3 in the first match]. I think Ukraine’s blocking was very strong, we were blocked several times. We played according to our practised system, but we may have had more errors and timing issues than they did."