MANILA – Petron Blaze Spikers recovered from a slow start to rout Smart Giga Hitters 25-23, 25-13, 25-12 to finish on top of the rankings in the 2018 Philippine Superliga All-Filipino Conference at the Caloocan Sports Center.
Mary Remy Palma was a revelation as she registered seven kills, five aces and three blocks for 15 points to lead the way for the Blaze Spikers, which made their 10th consecutive win in as many games Saturday night.
Aiza Maizo-Pontillas and Mika Reyes also came up with 11 markers apiece for the defending champions, which will head to a sudden-death quarterfinal match against the No. 8 team Thursday.
“Siyempre blessing na maka-sweep pero kailangan focus pa rin kami sa goal na championship,” said Blaze Spikers head coach Ceseal Delos Santos. “Bonus lang na hindi ka matalo pero ang importante every game nakakapag-improve kami.”
Trailing early in the opening set, the Blaze Spikers mounted a huge fight-back to escape with a 2-point win. Petron were never threatened as they established a double-digit edge early in second and third frames to come out with a straight-set victory.
While the Blaze Spikers sustained their winning run, Generika-Ayala Lifesavers’ campaign was stunted after they were defeated by F2 Logistics Cargo Movers 12-25, 20-25, 22-25.
Mary Joy Baron finished with 18 points, on 13 attacks, four blocks and a service ace, while Aby Maraño added 12 markers for the Cargo Movers, which claimed the solo second place with an 8-2 record.
“We’re just happy to get through this round. Now our focus is going to be in the coming knockout games,” said Cargo Movers’ captain Cha Cruz-Behag, whose squad will face Cocolife Asset Managers in the knockout quarterfinal match./PN
