MANILA, Philippines — Crowd favorite Ran Takahasi said Japan has to improve its reception game following their loss to Canada in the first day of the 2024 Volleyball Nations League (VNL) Manila leg at the Mall of Asia Arena on Tuesday.

Takashi and the Japanese team actually had five more receptions, 87-82, and even digs, 53-46, than Canada, but it was not enough as the Canadians emerged victorious in five sets, 25-21, 20-25, 25-15, 20-25, 15-10.

"We have to improve our reception (and) we have our eyes on a solution," said the 22-year-old outside hitter, who scored 13 points in the contest.

"Canada has a really nice and high block. I think we can do much better. We have our eyes on a solution but we have to improve our reception."

Canada, indeed, excelled in blocking, 12-3, as well in attacks, 61-57.

Stephen Maar pumped 24 points to lead Canada which rose to a 5-4 slate, seventh in the standings.

Japan team captain Yuki Ishikawa and Yuji Nishida banged 19 points each to pace Japan, which dropped to 6-3, sixth in the standings.

Ishikawa echoed Takahashi's sentiments.

"Today, we were not playing well, especially our reception, and Canada was playing well. So, today was a tough match."