MANILA – Petron Blaze Spikers kicked off its campaign in the Philippine Superliga Invitational Conference with a 25-22, 25-23, 25-18 sweep of rival F2 Logistics Cargo Movers at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.
Cherry Rondina tallied 17 points and six excellent receptions on Saturday while Ilongga Aiza Maizo-Pontillas added 16 markers.
The Blaze Spikers exacted revenge from their defeat to the Cargo Movers in the Invitational Cup finals a year ago.
“Sobrang ganda ng nilaro ng team but expected namin na talagang pipitpit ‘yung kalaban,” said Blaze Spikers head coach Ceseal Delos Santos. “Alam natin ‘yung quality (ng F2) kahit lumamang tayo pipilitin nila mahabol hanggang sa maipanalo nila.”
After tight wins in the first two sets, the Blaze Spikers broke loose in the third set with a 19-10 start.
The Cargo Movers rallied back but Petron kept its composure and closed out the match with timely hits from Mary Remy Palma.
Mary Joy Baron, Kianna Dy and Victorinara Galang lifted the defending champions Cargo Movers with nine points each, while Ilongga Aduke Ogunsanya added seven markers.
In the first game, Gretchel Soltones returned with a bang. She powered PLDT Home Fibr Power Hitters to a 25-19, 25-19, 25-13 sweep of Sta. Lucia Lady Realtors.
The former San Sebastian College star fired from almost all angles to finish with 12 points. She towed the Power Hitters to their first win in this prestigious women’s club tourney./PN
