MANILA – Smart-Philippine Army Giga Hitters finally scored its maiden win in the Philippine Superliga, kicking off its Invitational Cup campaign with a 25-14, 25-16, 25-23 upset over Sta. Lucia Lady Realtors at the San Juan Arena.
Ilongga Nerissa Bautista led the way with 9 points while Lutgarda Malaluan added 8 markers for Giga Hitters, which failed to register a win in its debut conference in the Grand Prix.
From a 7-all tie early in the first set Monday night, Giga Hitters pulled to a 16-9 lead on hits by Alina Bicar and Bautista. The lead grew to double figures following errors from Lady Realtors.
Giga Hitters once again pounced on the miscues of Lady Realtors in the second set to surge to a 16-8 lead. Malaluan and Mary Pacres then contributed on the offense to easily wrap up the set.
Lady Realtors put up a fight early in the third, hanging on to a slim lead before Giga Hitters went on a run behind Bautista and Malaluan for a 16-11 lead. Lady Realtors rallied to get as close as 23-24 before committing a service error to close the match.
“Maganda iyong blend ng Army players and UST (University of Santo Tomas) players namin,” said Giga Hitters head coach Emilio Reyes. “Iyong mga batang players namin meron sila noong athleticism na kulang sa mga beterano. Kaya naman i-lead ng mga beterano iyong mga bata.”
In the other match Cocolife Asset Managers bucked a lethargic start to overcome the gallant stand of Cherrylume-UE Iron Lady Warriors 22-25, 25-13, 25-22, 25-18.
Gyra Barroga top-scored with 17 points built on 12 attacks, four blocks and an ace. Alex Tan chipped in 15 hits while Justine Tiu added 9 markers, including 18 digs and eight receptions, for Asset Managers./PN
