With determination outweighing trepidation, the Akari Chargers embark on their most challenging test yet, fueled by a desire not just to claim solo lead in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference preliminaries but also to avenge their previous loss to the powerhouse Creamline Cool Smashers.
In a long-awaited rematch set on Saturday at 6:30 p.m. at the Candon City Arena in Ilocos Sur, the Chargers aim to rewrite their story against their formidable rivals, two months after falling short in the Reinforced Conference finals.
Led by prolific import Oly Okaro, Akari had swept its way to the title series of the import-laden tournament but was ultimately swept by Creamline, which went on to secure its historic Grand Slam feat in the Invitationals.
But carrying the momentum of back-to-back four-set wins in the new season of the league organized by Sports Vision and supported by Arena Plus, Fabriano Appliances and Mikasa, the Chargers are brimming with optimism. Key players Ivy Lacsina, Faith Nisperos, Grethcel Soltones and Eli Soyud will provide the firepower, while Fifi Sharma and Camille Victoria will fortify the frontline.
Playmakers Michelle Cobb and Kamille Cal will orchestrate plays, with Dani Ravena and Maxine Juangco anchoring the defense.
However, the Cool Smashers are no strangers to high-pressure matches. Fresh from a commanding straight-set victory over Petro Gazz, Creamline continues to shine under coach Sherwin Meneses.
With Jema Galanza back from national team duties and Alyssa Valdez recovering from injury, the team remains a well-rounded force. Doubts linger over Tots Carlos’s availability, but Creamline’s depth includes stars like Bernadeth Pons, Michele Gumabao, Pangs Panaga, Lorie Bernardo and Bea de Leon.
While Akari coach Taka Minowa believes in his team's potential to defy expectations, observers maintain that overcoming Creamline will require more than talent and grit – it will demand an extraordinary performance.
The Petro Gazz Angels, on the other hand, seek to rebound from their stinging loss to Cool Smashers as they face the struggling Farm Fresh Foxies in the 4 p.m. opener. With the likes of Brooke Van Sickle, Aiza Pontillas and Jonah Sabete leading the charge, the Angels are determined to re-establish their winning ways.
Farm Fresh, for its part, faces a daunting challenge with a limited roster that includes Trisha Tubu, Rizza Cruz, Aprylle Tagsip and Alyssa Bertonalo. Coach Benson Bocboc will need a standout performance from his squad to counter the depth of Petro Gazz, which also boasts talents like Remy Palma, Joy Dacoron, Myla Pablo and Nicole Tiamzon.
Meanwhile, the PVL on Tour continues with its next stop in Cebu on Dec. 7, pitting Cignal against Nxled at 4 p.m. and Capital1 versus Galeries Tower at 6:30 p.m.
