Akari made a bold statement in its quest for a strong campaign in the Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference, overcoming a tough Capital1 side, 25-18, 27-25, 22-25, 25-14, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig Thursday night to join Petro Gazz in the early Pool B lead.
American Oly Okaro had a spectacular debut, scoring an impressive 16 points and leading the Chargers to a promising start, especially after their seventh-place finish in the recent All Filipino Conference and following a trade of key players with sister team Nxled during the break.
Okaro and Ced Domingo spearheaded the Chargers’ assault in the fourth set, steering the team to an 18-10 lead en route to the two-hour, 16-minute victory.
Okaro's performance sets a strong tone for the team, which is looking to make significant strides this season.
“Actually, since the exchange of players between Akari and Nxled, we’re having a hard time to practice. Until Oly came to the team, we haven’t done any six-on-six so maybe this time we can have some connection. We need to maximize this PVL conference if we’re going to be better,” said Chargers head coach Taka Minowa.
After Okaro’s attack that pulled the Chargers to within a point, 22-23, Russian Marina Tushova responded for the Solar Spikers with an off-the-block hit followed by a service ace to clinch the third set for Capital1 and extend the match.
But the Chargers re-established control in the fourth with Lacsina finishing with a team-high 20 points in her first game for Akari.
Middle blockers Domingo and Camille Victoria added eight and seven points, respectively, for the Chargers.
Grethcel Soltones, despite only scoring six, made her presence felt on the defensive end with 12 excellent receptions and 12 digs, while libero Dani Ravena also shone with 18 digs and 11 receptions.
However, a single victory, while encouraging, does not yet establish Akari as a title contender.
Akari’s mettle will be tested as the Chargers face the Choco Mucho Flying Titans next on Tuesday while the Solar Spikers tangle with the fancied Petro Gazz Angels.
Tushova led the Solar Spikers with 20 points on 17 attacks, two blocks, and an ace along with 12 receptions, while Iris Tolenada debuted for Capital1 with 10 excellent sets and seven points.
Second overall rookie pick Leila Cruz also finished with seven points, the same output put in by Des Clemente for the Solar Spikers.
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