Cobb's courage fuels Akari's comeback over Nxled

The match started with Nxled, still winless in the tournament, taking the opening set. But everything changed when Cobb, chasing down a second ball with her signature tenacity, landed awkwardly, resulting in a neck injury that forced her out of the game. 

Despite the unsettling incident, the Chargers regrouped and rallied behind their injured leader. Ivy Lacsina led the offensive onslaught with 17 points, while Eli Soyud and Faith Nisperos added 15 apiece, showcasing Akari's depth and determination.

“Siguro po mas kinuhanan namin ng lakas ng loob si Ate Mich kasi siyempre po para sa kanya din tong laro na to. Kaya kami nagstay focused dahil nga po doon sa binubuo naming culture ng team doon kami nagstick sa tinuturo ni coach habang naglalaro,” Lacsina shared.

“Gusto din ni Mich maglaro kami as one and ipanalo yung game ngayon para din sa kumpiyansa ng team so mas ginalingan namin and humugot kami ng lakas doon,” added Soyud.

Kamille Cal stepped up admirably in Cobb's absence, finishing with 12 excellent sets and six points, despite dealing with elbow pain before the game. Cams Victoria contributed 10 points, while Fifi Sharma added seven to further solidify Akari’s balanced attack.

Courtside reporter Sam Corrales later shared that Cobb was responsive in the dugout and reported no neck pain or dizziness, offering some relief to her teammates and supporters.

The victory improved Akari's record to 4-4, placing them in solo seventh as they approach the final stretch of the preliminaries. With three crucial matches remaining against Capital1, Choco Mucho, and Cignal, the Chargers aim to channel the same fighting spirit that carried them through this emotional triumph.