Top seed Air Force finally got the win it long wanted – a 25-20, 26-24, 26-24 decision over a stubborn Laoag side yesterday.
The win was tough but very sweet for the Lady Jet Spikers as they avenged the shocking and lone setback they suffered to the Power Smashers in the elimination round of the Shakey’s V-League Season 13 Open Conference at The Arena in San Juan City.
Credit Air Force’s vengeful win to former University of Santo Tomas star Judy Caballejo who delivered the blows that mattered most.
For coming through with huge shots, Caballejo also pushed the Jet Spikers closer to their ultimate goal – advancing to the finals against either No. 2 Pocari Sweat or No. 3 BaliPure.
It was a day of revenge in the tournament presented by Shakey’s as BaliPure also drew first blood in their own semis series with Pocari by eking out a 25-20, 25-19, 26-24 victory.
The win enabled BaliPure to redeem itself from a stunning meltdown to Pocari Sweat in the elims. Not only that, the win was also fitting gift for Valdez, who turned 23 yesterday.
Inspired by the presence of basketball star boyfriend Kiefer Ravena, Valdez pushed BaliPure ahead, 25-24, with a booming spike before Amy Ahomiro sealed the win with an ace.
Valdez fired 24 points highlighted by 19 kills.
Air Force’s male counterparts also prevailed after dominating the Instituto Estetico Manila (IEM) Phoenix Volley Masters, 22-25, 25-18, 25-22, 25-23, in their own semis series in the Spikers’ Turf Season 2 Open Conference.
Top seed Cignal likewise moved a win shy of advancing to the finals with a 25-22, 19-25, 25-22, 26-24 over the Sta. Elena Spikers.
Both Cignal and Air Force can finish off their rivals with another win on Saturday at the same venue.
