By Will Imperial
The Petro Gazz Angles secured the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) Champions League women’s title with a stunning 25-19, 27-25, 25-22 victory over the previously unbeaten Cignal HD Spikers.
Brooke Van Sickle and Jonah Sabete led the charge as the Angels denied the HD Spikers, who had a near-perfect run until the finale.
Van Sickle showcased her prowess, tallying 20 points with 18 attacks and two blocks.
The University of Hawaii standout delivered a sweet title in the local league debut of new head coach Koji Tsuzurabara from Japan. Jonah Sabete, with 18 points, and contributions from Remy Palma and Kecelyn Galdones, who threw in seven points each, complemented her effort.
“Thank you so much. Now, my players understand my volleyball a little bit. We still need all-around practice, but this time, they gave me the best performance. I just told them before the game, you are the challengers. My team was the challenger,” said Tsuzubara.
“I couldn’t be more grateful enough for my teammates and the coaching staff. They made it happen,” added Brooke, who delivered the championship-winning point amidst a fiery comeback by Cignal.
Ces Molina managed 13 points as the lone bright spot for Cignal in a shocking runner-up finish after sweeping its way to the finals, including a five-setter victory against St. Benilde in the Final Four.
Earlier, Mylene Paat led the way with 11 points on eight hits and three blocks as Chery Tiggo secured the bronze medal with a dominant 25-20, 25-13, 25-13 win against the College of St. Benilde.
Team captain Maraño and Ara Galang, former pillars of the disbanded F2 Logistics, contributed 10 points each to support Paat as Chery Tiggo secured a comfortable win after falling to Petro Gazz in straight sets in the semifinals.
“Maganda ‘yung experience kasama sila Ara at Tyang. It’s a great start para sa amin,” said coach Kungfu Reyes, whose wards came off a 21-25, 19-25, and 14-25 defeat to the Angels.
