By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA
Petro Gazz gave Strong Group Athletics a rude welcome in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference with a 25-12, 25-20, 25-12 thrashing on Tuesday, Feb. 20, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
The Angels, runners-up to the Creamline Cool Smashers last year, hardly broke a sweat in disposing of the newcomers, needing only 68 minutes to claim their first victory and make their title campaign felt in this season-opening conference.
The triumph was also a fitting gift for Petro Gazz’s new coach, Japanese Koji Tsuzurabara.
Nicole Tiamzon stepped up early for the Angels by unloading 13 kills and two aces to finish with 15 points, while Brooke Van Sickle debuted with seven points.
Tiamzon said they are adjusting to the team changes in such a short period, but are welcoming it to further toughen the squad.
“Siguro yung quality ng training, yun yung important change, but we’re doing it slowly,” said Tiamzon.
“Focus kami sa conditioning and recovery to prepare for all the games.”
The Angels actually struggled in the second set where they gave up 14 points on errors, but eventually found their rhythm in the third frame where they dominated with a 10-3 start and never looked back.
Marian Buitre also chipped in eight points for Petro Gazz while returning Myla Pablo and Mich Morente combined for nine points.
None from SGA scored in double figures with former Jose Rizal University standout Dolly Versoza topscoring for six points.
So lethargic were the SGA Spikers that they only managed 15 team attacks, one block and one ace.
