By: Will Imperial
PLDT strategically showcased its endgame prowess, overcoming a remarkably resilient Galeries Tower and securing a decisive 25-22, 25-6, 25-9 victory in the Premier Volleyball League 1st All-Filipino Conference on Thursday at the FilOil EcoOil Center in San Juan.
This win resulted in an early three-way tie for the lead in the elimination round of the conference.
Savi Davison played a crucial role in the High Speed Hitters’ dominant performance in the last two sets, emerging as the top scorer with 19 points, including 16 successful attacks. Jules Samonte provided strong support with 15 markers, including four aces.
The Fil-Canadian later expressed excitement about the team’s prospects in the season-opening conference, particularly highlighting the contributions of former F2 Logistics players Kim Fajardo and Majoy Baron.
Fajardo delivered 11 excellent sets and contributed two points, while Baron scored four points.
“So excited being here for the conference. Also excited with the people we have, with the additions,” said Davison, who joined PLDT in the second AFC last year.
Despite a shaky start, Davison mentioned that they had a successful first game by emphasizing the fundamentals—service, passing, and winners.
The triumph not only demonstrated PLDT’s adaptability but also hinted at a promising campaign for the team in the upcoming matches.
Fiola Ceballos contributed seven markers, Jessey de Leon finished with four points, and seven others added at least one point, enabling the High Speed Hitters to overpower the Highrisers in spikes with a score of 47-24. Additionally, PLDT recorded six blocks and an equal number of aces, contrasting with Galeries Tower’s 2 and 1, respectively.
The match endured for 75 minutes, and despite the Highrisers putting up a strong fight, it featured several standoffs in the opening frame, including one at 15.
Julia Ipac emerged as the top scorer for Galeries with seven points, while Shola Alvarez and France Ronquillo contributed four points each. Additionally, Andrea Marzan, Carly Hernandez, and Ysa Jimenez posted three points each for Galeries Tower in a valiant but losing effort.
