Petron enters PSL Grand Prix finals after victory over Cignal

“Another finals appearance for Petron! Will they remain undefeated?” (Photo: Philippine Superliga/Facebook)

The Petron Blaze Spikers continued their spotless season and once again enter the finals of the Philippine SuperLiga (PSL) after a four-set win over the Cignal HD Spikers during Game Two of the best-of-three semifinal series at the Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan last Thursday, April 25. This is the Blaze Spikers 17th consecutive win of the season.

The set scores ended 23-25, 25-17, 25-16, and 25-21 with the defending champions’ import Stephanie Niemer bouncing off her adrenaline from Game One and continuing her strong performance with 35 points off 26 kills, five aces, and four blocks, while also adding 20 digs and 10 excellent receptions. Katherine Bell also chipped 18 points, while Mika Reyes added seven. Setter Rhea Dimaculangan did not disappoint with 26 excellent sets, while libero Denden Lazaro had 14 digs and eight receptions. On the opposing side, Erica Wilson fought hard with 24 points, while Ana Artemeva contributed 18. Rachel Anne Daquis also contributed double digits at 12 points.

After the match, highest scorer Niemer still applauds Cignal, saying, “I am so impressed with Cignal, but I am more impressed with how we responded. We knew that they were going to come out playing well especially after the first matchup against them,” adding, “But I am so impressed on how we adjusted, we kept it cool. They were digging some shots but we maintained our composure all throughout.”

Game 1 of the best-of-three championship series, where Petron will go head-to-head once again with F2 Logistics, will begin next Tuesday, April 30 at the same venue. This is the 13th PSL finals series in a row that Petron is making an appearance. Anticipating their finals run, Niemer added, “I don’t think we even hit our peak yet. I mean we didn’t all jell today. We needed to battle some things but I think we got enough practice to prepare for our next game. I still think we still have room to improve and that’s pretty awesome.”

Finals Game Two is set on May 2.