In a clash of streaking teams, Chery Tiggo continued its relentless march towards the semifinals, securing its fifth consecutive victory while halting PLDT’s run at five with a 25-22, 25-16, 25-20 triumph, further mudding up the race in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference at the Philsports Arena in Pasig Tuesday night.
Emerging on top in a duel of spurts in the first set, the Crossovers carried the momentum through the second frame, outclassing the High Speed Hitters with superior hitting and hustle while capitalizing on PLDT’s erratic plays.
They cashed in on their good run of form and surged to an 8-3 lead in the third set, ultimately sealing another commanding victory and closing the match in one hour and 32 minutes.
With their remarkable streak, Chery Tiggo joined Creamline, Petro Gazz, and PLDT in the second spot with a 7-2 slate, just half a game behind Choco Mucho’s leading 8-1 record, setting the stage for an intense, wild conclusion to what has been a furious preliminary round stage.
Eya Laure emphasized the team’s collective approach, highlighting the significance of teamwork over individual efforts. She also echoed the team’s commitment to a disciplined mindset, focused on winning each point and working harmoniously towards their goals.
“Nagsisimula lahat ng ito sa training, program at system ng mga coaches, sa recovery time since pukpukan nga sa training. So importante talaga ang communication para mag work out ang mga ganitong bagay (panalo),” added the former UST standout.
The Crossovers, who have notched significant victories the Cool Smashers, the Angels, and the HD Spikers, will take on two eliminated teams in the Akari Chargers on April 20 and the Galeries Tower Highrisers on April 25.
PLDT, on the other hand, faces a challenging task ahead, needing victories against back-to-the-wall Cignal and defending champion Creamline, also on April 20 and 25, respectively, to annex a berth in the post-elims play.
Chery Tiggo’s victory mirrored Petro Gazz’s earlier win against Cignal as both teams displayed sheer determination to fashion out convincing victories, bolstering their respective positions in the semis battle.
Under the guidance of Reyes, Chery Tiggo also drew stellar performances from players like EJ Laure, Ara Galang, Cza Carandang Mylene Paat, and Aby Maraño. EJ Laure shone with 10 points, Galang finished with nine markers, Carandang added six points and Paat and Maraño matched five-point outputs.
Savi Davison came away with 22 points but the rest of the High Speed Hitters struggled to find their rhythm after a tough opening set. Majoy Baron proved to be the next best scorer with six points as Erika Santos and Dell Palomata wound up with only four markers apiece and Kiesha Bedonia scored two points in a third-set appearance.
Fiola Ceballos, Jules Samonte, and Kim Fajardo ended up with a solitary point each.
