Galang stresses importance of Chery Tiggo's locals as they rally behind Bell

As the 2024 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference heads into its next round, Chery Tiggo finds itself in a crucial position. 

The Crossovers, led by their standout import Khat Bell, have secured a spot in the top three of Pool A after a hard-fought four-set victory over Galeries Tower. 

But for Ara Galang, one of the team’s key players, there’s still room for growth—especially among the team’s local talent.

With Bell nursing a minor back injury, Galang believes it’s imperative for the locals to step up and take on a bigger role in supporting their super import. 

"Yung teamwork namin (mahalaga) kasi although may import, kailangan kasi matulungan din namin siya," Galang explained. 

Galang has been a consistent force for Chery Tiggo throughout the conference, and she once again delivered in their latest match. 

The former F2 Logistics star fired 16 points, including 11 attacks and five kill blocks, to help the Crossovers clinch the victory in one hour and 48 minutes. 

But despite her stellar performance, Galang knows that the team can’t rely solely on Bell.

"Hindi pwedeng aasa lang kami sa kanya. Kailangan kaming locals, pagtrabahuan namin para mas madali sa kanya at mas madali sa buong team," she emphasized. 

Galang’s call to action highlights the importance of the local players sharing the scoring load, especially as Bell continues to recover.

Pauline Gaston contributed nine points in the match, while Mary Rhose Dapol and Shaya Adorador each added six points. 

These contributions are crucial, but Galang is confident that the locals have more to offer.

"I think okay naman kasi nananalo kami. Pero alam naming meron pa kaming kayang itulong at kaya pa naming iangat so yun yung pagtatrabahuan namin," she added.

Chery Tiggo head coach Kungfu Reyes also recognized the importance of the locals stepping up, particularly in the fourth set when he decided to pull Bell out of the game. 

Reyes was pleased to see the locals rise to the occasion, demonstrating their ability to perform under pressure.

"So 'yun, 'yung tiwala naman ng locals sa isa't isa, kung pa'no naman sila gumalaw, kayang-kaya naman nila. It's just a matter of timing and adjustment tsaka 'yung... dedicated naman 'tong mga player na 'to, regardless mapa-left front or right front 'yung adjustment na ginagawa, niyayakap naman nila," Reyes remarked.

For Chery Tiggo, the victory over Galeries Tower was a step in the right direction, but the road ahead remains challenging. 

As they prepare for the next round, the Crossovers will need to continue building on their teamwork and ensuring that everyone, from the seasoned stars to the rising locals, contributes to the cause.