Capital1's triumph over defending champions Petro Gazz on Tuesday night stands out as a defining moment for the young franchise.
The Solar Spikers, who had started their 2024 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference campaign with a tough four-set loss to Akari, delivered a stunning performance at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
With a sweeping victory of 26-24, 25-20, 25-18, Capital1 showcased their resilience and potential in a match that reverberated throughout the league.
Head coach Roger Gorayeb was visibly elated after the match.
The win over Petro Gazz was not just a victory but a statement.
Gorayeb, who has been guiding Capital1 since its formation less than six months ago, expressed his pride in the team’s performance.
“Masayang-masaya ako kasi who would have ever thought na maii-straight (sets) namin?” he said. This sweep was particularly significant as it matched the Solar Spikers’ win total from the entire last conference, where they had struggled, ending with a disappointing 1-10 record in the All-Filipino tournament.
The triumph against a more experienced team like Petro Gazz was more than just a win; it was a morale booster for the young squad.
Gorayeb highlighted how the victory countered perceptions of Capital1 as a low-level team.
“They’re always looking at us as a low-level team, tapos maka-straight sets kami against a more experienced team? Malaking bagay sa amin 'yun, morale-booster sa mga bata 'yun,” he explained.
The Solar Spikers’ recent success is a result of meticulous planning and player development.
The team, which has undergone a significant overhaul with new rookies and free agents, is starting to show the fruits of their labor.
“You cannot quantify it. Sobra sila ngayon. Sobra,” Gorayeb said.
Gorayeb’s faith in his team is evident, and his approach to coaching has been instrumental in their recent success.
“Even the national team, pick all the big players, pagsama-samahin mo and you play outside of the country – they will never win. We need more time. What do I expect in a very short time I have these players with me? What can I expect in the future? The best team that I can form,” he declared.
The match against Petro Gazz saw everything fall into place for Capital1.
Russian import Marina Tushova led the charge with an impressive 24 points, complemented by 10 digs and nine receptions.
Jorelle Singh and Des Clemente each added nine points, while Julia Ipac and Leila Cruz contributed five points each. 
The Solar Spikers capitalized on 23 free points from the Angels’ errors, further highlighting their strategic advantage.
Gorayeb also credited veteran Iris Tolenada for her pivotal role in the win.
Tolenada delivered 15 excellent sets, a notable improvement from her previous performance.
“They played freely. Hindi ko sila pinapakialamanan, especially the setter. Mag-isip ka, bahala ka. If there’s something wrong with the game, I’ll take them out. But fortunately, everyone played well, including our two liberos, Roma Mae Doromal and Rica Rivera,” Gorayeb praised.
Reflecting on the previous game where they almost clinched the second set but fell short, Gorayeb noted how the team’s experience and readiness in this match made a difference.
“Syempre, yung experience namin last game na we almost won the second set but the breaks didn’t go our way, now we don’t need the breaks. The players themselves know what to do, kaya magaan kaming nanalo ngayon,” he said.
Capital1’s victory over Petro Gazz marks a significant milestone for the Solar Spikers.
As the team continues to develop and gain experience, this win could be the catalyst for a strong performance in the remainder of the conference.
With Gorayeb’s unwavering support and the players' growing confidence, Capital1 is poised for an exciting journey ahead in the PVL.
