Games Tomorrow
(Philsports Arena, Pasig City)
10 a.m. – Air Force vs Army
1 p.m. – Cignal vs Sta. Elena
Thai Kannika Thipachot erupted for 28 points as the Power Smashers stalled the Pocari Sweat Lady Warriors’ finals bid with a 24-26, 22-25, 25-18, 25-23, 15-13 win in the Premier Volleyball League women’s tournament yesterday at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
The Power Smashers looked like goners after losing the first two sets but the Thai import started to assert herself, coming through with heavy spikes that helped rouse her teammates from a deep stupor to win the next three to force a knockout match in their best-of-three semis series.
The rubber match is set tomorrow with momentum now on the Power Smashers’ side.
Thipachot was so determined this time she unleashed 27 hits capped by a drop shot from Pocari’s Melissa Gohing’s play to seal the win.
“Siguro nag-work lang talaga yung rotation na binago ko. Naging mas naging effective,” said Power Smashers Coach Nes Pamilar.
Hyapa Amporn, the team’s other Thai import, was the other factor that helped turn the game around in the Power Smashers’ favor as she led the team to a 5-2 lead which they valiantly protected to prevail.
She finished with 18 points built on 15 spikes and three blocks. Skipper Jovelyn Prado also stepped up with 17 points, while Alina Bicar made 37 excellent sets.
Their win negated Michelle Strizak’s 33-point performance.
Meantime, Cignal and Air Force dismantled their respective semifinal rivals to force rubber match in the men’s division.
The HD Spikers regained their fiery formand demolished the Sta. Elena Wrecking Balls, 25-17, 25-19, 25-22, while the Jet Spikers hammered down the Army Troopers, 25-17, 25-18, 25-20.
