Games Tomorrow
(The Arena, San Juan)
2 p.m. – Petron vs Generika
4 p.m. – RC Cola-Army vs Cignal
Foton survived Generika’s last-minute rally in the fourth set before posting a 25-11, 22-25, 26-24, 25-21 victory yesterday to nail its first victory in the Philippine Superliga All-Filipino Conference at The Arena in San Juan.
Tied at 21-all after the Lifesavers rallied with four straight points, the Tornadoes hang tough in their all-around game to even their win-loss record at 1-1.
A service error from Chloe Cortez gave Foton a 22-21 edge, before an ace from Angeli Araneta, a double block and a corner smash from Maika Ortiz sealed the win in its favor.
Generika absorbed its first loss since winning over Standard Insurance Navy two days back.
“Itong panalo na ito yung way namin para ma-gain yung confidence namin sa mga susunod na laro at para mas mabuo pa yung teamwork namin,” said Cherry Rondina, a University of Santo Tomas standout who had 19 attacks, one block and one ace for 21 points.
Foton appeared struggling in its chemistry but were able to regain its rhythm in the third set, where they rose from a 23-24 deficit en route to the set win.
In that frame, Rondina highlighted back-to-back spikes that gave the Tornadoes life in the next set.
“Our problem during the game was to how to calm her down,” said Foton coach Villet Ponce-de Leon, referring to the 5-foot-4 Rondina who dazzled the crowd with her high-leaping, high-intensity brand of play.
“She is young and full of energy. She performs best when she’s not ‘hyper’. So, the challenge for us was how to tone her down. But overall, it was a very good game for her.”
Jaja Santiago added 16 points including 12 hits for Foton, even as EJ Laure had eight points.
Foton’s victory overshadowed the efforts of Shaya Adorador, Wensh Tiu and Chloe Cortez, who had 14, 13 and 12 points, respectively, for Generika.
