The Petron Blaze Spikers officially have a hold of ranking number two for the 2019 Philippine Superliga (PSL) All-Filipino Conference after an easy three-set win over Generika-Ayala, 25-18, 25-12, and 25-16 last Tuesday, July 9 at the Bacoor Strike Gymnasium, Cavite.
Ces Molina performed for her team with 12 points off 10 kills and two service aces, while she was helped by Sisi Rondina who totalled 11 points off eight attacks, two aces, and one block. Mika Reyes contributed a total of 10 points and four blocks, while Aiza-Maizo Pontillas and Remy Palma scored seven individually. It was an all-around team effort as setter Rhea Dimaculangan totalled 18 sets as well, and libero Buding Duremdes totalled 11 digs and seven excellent receptions.
For the Lifesavers, only Angeli Araneta was close to score double-digits at nine points, followed by Fiola Ceballos and Patty Orendain who added five and two markers respectively.
Petron head coach Shaq Delos Santos reacted to their now solo-second spot in the league, stating in Filipino, “I got surprised because we know how Generika place. They were defeating the competitive teams for how many games,” revealing, “For us, we told ourselves to really give our best because we were tied with Generika in the standings. This was to test where we are now.” He added, “The past few games have also been a struggle for us, but good thing this game came out not at one hundred percent, but you can see that we’re able to move well.” Delos Santos is proud of his team because “they followed the game plan and they stopped Generika’s attackers.”
The Lifesavers have dropped lower in ranking now at third after their four-game victory was cut to an end, while Petron faces five wins and one loss.
Generika will attempt to get back on track on Thursday, July 11 as they face the PLDT Home Fibr Hitters at the Muntinlupa Sports Center, while Petron will try to fare even better on Saturday, July 13 as they face the Sta. Lucia Realtors at the Alonte Sports Center.