August 14 ------ PLDT punched its ticket to the quarterfinals after eliminating ZUS Coffee in straight sets, 25-18, 25-14, 25-12, in the 2024 Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference, at the Philsports Arena. Lena Samoilenko and Majoy Baron took charge for the High Speed Hitters, who dominated the Thunderbelles set after set to force a tie with Cignal at the second spot with identical 5-1 records.
The Russian wing spiker posted a game-high 14 points on 12 attacks and two blocks to go along with eight excellent digs and six excellent receptions, while the 5-foot-11 middle blocker had 13 points on nine attacks, three blocks, and one ace. “Happy sa panalo, happy na nakalaro ‘yung mga nasa bench. So nag-perform din sila,” said PLDT head coach Rald Ricafort. “Siguro this game inenjoy lang talaga namin. Naglaro lang talaga kami nang maayos and consistent,” added Baron.
Mika Reyes added nine markers, while Kiesha Bedonia contributed seven points in just two sets of play for the High Speed Hitters in the quick one-hour, 17-minute contest. Kim Fajardo tossed 15 excellent sets laced with two points, while team captain Kath Arado registered 19 excellent digs. PLDT will gun for its third consecutive win against defending champion Petro Gazz on Saturday, 3:00 p.m. at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
On the other hand, the also-ran Thunderbelles dropped to 0-6 in the standings. Japanese import Asaka Tamaru was the lone double-digit scorer for ZUS Coffee with 13 points to go along with 14 excellent digs. The Thunderbelles will take on Chery Tiggo in search of its first win also on Saturday at 1:00 p.m.
Source: tiebreakertimes.com.ph
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