Army survives Valdez-less PLDT in five sets

Philippine Army Lady Troopers. Photo taken from Shakey’s V-League’s Facebook account

Philippine Army overcame a gritty stand from PLDT Home Ultera,  25-23, 23-25 25-11, 19-25, 15-13 to gain a share of the early lead in the Shakey’s V-League Season 12 Reinforced Conference before a big Sunday crowd at Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan. 

With setter Tina Salak playing solid on both ends, the Lady Troopers survived a stiff challenge from the Ultra Spikers who showed plenty of fight even without ace attacker Alyssa Valdez. 

Valdez is still recovering from a back injury she sustained while playing for Ateneo in the UAAP women’s beach volleyball tournament. 

With the victory, Army gained a share of top spot with University of the Philippines which walloped Coast Guard, 25-20, 25-22, 27-25 last Saturday. 

Earlier, Philippine Navy dumped KIA Forte in straight sets, 25-18, 25-23, 25-21 to grab solo third with a 2-1 record. 

The Lady Sailors leaned on a strong performance from Pau Soriano, who had 14 points built on 11 attacks, two service aces and a block. 

PLDT Home Ultera fell to 1-1, while KIA dropped to 0-2.