Action in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference heats up on Thursday as four teams aim to break their respective win-loss streaks at the Araneta Coliseum. Known for its hallmark unpredictability, the league continues to live up to its pre-launch billing.
While Creamline and Cignal remain unbeaten at 3-0, the rest of the 12-team roster have experienced turbulent starts, underlining the league’s competitive balance.
Petro Gazz and Akari clash at 6 p.m. in what promises to be a thrilling battle of skill and strategy. Both teams are eager to get back into the thick of things – Petro Gazz is fresh off a mixed bag of results following an opening win over Choco Mucho for a 2-1 slate, while Akari is determined to recover after back-to-back losses after two straight wins.
Brooke van Sickle will lead Petro Gazz’s attack, supported by veterans Aiza Pontillas, Remy Palma and Jonah Sabete, while Akari will bank on Eli Soyud, Faith Nisperos, and Ivy Lacsina with Grethcel Soltones hoping for a stronger showing as she continues to recover from a hand injury.
Expect an intense contest where poise under pressure and late-game adjustments could spell the difference.
In the 4 p.m. opener, Farm Fresh and ZUS Coffee lock horns in what promises to be a high-octane encounter. Both squads are coming off confidence-boosting wins – the Foxies stunned the Chargers in straight sets for a 1-2 card, while the Thunderbelles swept their last two games against the Nxled Chameleons and the Galeries Tower Highrisers to hike their record to 2-1.
Trisha Tubu, riding high after a 21-point performance, will once again spearhead Farm Fresh alongside Caitlin Viray, Rizza Cruz, Alyssa Bertolano and skipper Louie Romero.
Meanwhile, ZUS Coffee looks to extend its winning streak to three, leaning on the leadership of Jovelyn Gonzaga and Chai Troncoso, and standout rookie Thea Gagate. Coach Jerry Yee will also rely on solid contributions from Chinnie Arroyo, Gayle Pascual, Michelle Gamit and playmaker Cloanne Mondonedo.
With all four teams hungry for victory, fans can expect a day filled with tight sets, fierce rallies and tactical battles. Whether it’s Petro Gazz’s offensive firepower or Akari’s defensive grit, or the surging confidence of Farm Fresh and ZUS Coffee, each match will be a test of skill, strategy and mental toughness.
