ILOCOS NORTE -- Petro Gazz middle blocker Ria Meneses was a force to be reckoned with in the Angels' debut win in the Premier Volleyball League Open Conference at the PCV Socio-Civic Cultural Center here in Bacarra on Sunday.
She finished with nine blocks, six attacks, and an ace for 16 points in her first game in a Petro Gazz jersey, leading the Angels to a 25-19, 22-25, 25-20, 25-21, victory over Black Mamba-Army.
The UST product credited the team's a month and a half build-up for her strong showing.
"Sa paghahanda, grabe kasi yung training namin sa bubble, iba talaga -- ibang-iba sa normal talaga. Kaya ayun, sana magbunga rin talaga ng maganda yung lahat ng pinaghirapan namin," said Meneses after the win.
Meneses bared that she was so excited the night before that match. That is why even the long stoppage of the match due to the heavy rain did not stop her from playing at her best.
"Honestly, kahapon ko pa sinasabi sa mga kasama ko na excited talaga ako sa game ngayon. Ang tagal naming hinintay 'to tapos first game. Kaya kahit ang daming aberya, talagang pinu-push namin matapos na yung game ngayon e," said Meneses moments after the win.
Meneses played a key role in the opening set, energizing the entire squad to take a 1-0 advantage over the Lady Troopers.
When the game was halted in the second set, Meneses provided the much-need firepower to help Petro Gazz pick up right where they left off.
"Siyempre, lahat naman ata ang goal dito is mag champion kasi bagong balik sa volleyball e. Kung sino talaga yung mag hihirap yun yung makakakuha," said Meneses.
