MANILA, Philippines — For the third time in as many years, the Japan men's volleyball team has been the favorite of the Filipino crowd in Volleyball Nations League (VNL).

And they're thankful for it.

"The crowd was amazing. We are so happy to play here again, so today we lost but next match we will try to win. We have two days off so [we can work on] some things to be better. Next match is important for us so we should focus on our things," said Japan team captain Yuki Ishikawa.

"It's amazing to play here again this year. When we make points, the crowd cheers on us so we're so happy and excited. Thank you for supporting us and we will show our best volleyball."

Japan will next face The Netherlands on June 21 while Canada will take on Brazil on the same date.