Super Liga: Benito shines as Rising Suns too bright for Puffins

MANILA, Philippines — Joy Benito committed a costly error late but only to make up for it with the game clinching points to lead Cagayan Valley to a grueling 16-25, 25-18, 20-25, 25-15, 15-13 win over PCSO Bingo Milyonaryo Wednesday in the Philippine Super Liga (PSL) at the Arena in San Juan.

Benito, a two-time NCAA MVP with San Sebastian, proved her worth with 18 points, including the Rising Suns’ final two to outlast the Puffins and rack up in their second straight win in five-set fashion.

“Nakuhanan ko sila ng lakas kasi naglaro po kami as a team. Hindi po kami yung maglalaro individually,” said the 22-year-old Benito, who played a key role in the Stags’ “five-peat” from 2007-2011.

“Yung team kong dala-dala ngayon medyo madali silang i-coach. Hindi sila katulad ng ibang teams na masyadong maraming star [players]. Ang mga players ko kasi last na kami nakapagbuo ng team so dapat tulong-tulong,” said Cagayan coach Nestor Pamilar.

The Rising Suns, who stunned Philippine Army, 25-23, 25-27, 26-24, 14-25, 15-12, last Sunday, also drew 18 points from Joy Cases.

La Salle star Michelle Gumabao topscored with 19 points with four blocks for Bingo Milyonaryo, who dropped to 0-2 after losing to PLDT MyDSL in four sets in the opener.