Pocari using Pablo’s absence as motivation to win bronze
As if Pocari Sweat-Air Force’s loss in the semifinals of the Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference didn’t hurt enough, the former champions would once again be put to the test in the bronze medal series.
The Lady Warriors already got a 1-0 edge in their best-of-three duel with BanKo but they are looking at a second game without captain Myla Pablo.
Pocari’s skipper hurt her back during the Lady Warriors’ warm ups before the third semifinals game against Creamline and Pablo will likely miss Game 2 of the bronze medal series.
Pablo’s absence, however, does not deter the Lady Warriors, as they’re more motivated to deliver without their captain leading them.
“We’re definitely more motivated and we’re more shellshocked today that when it happened,” said import Madeline Palmer Sunday at Mall of Asia Arena.
Without Pablo, Palmer shouldered much of the offensive load and put up 24 points in the Lady Warriors’ five-set win, 25-22, 17-25, 16-25, 26-24, 15-11, over the Perlas Spikers.
“Though we’re already used to it and we adjusted,” said Palmer. “We have capable players on the bench and anybody can come in and have a great game.”
Arielle Love helped Palmer with the offensive duties and put up 17 points while Del Palomata also turned in a solid performance with 13 points.
Palmer said, although they’ve adjusted to Pablo’s presence, that it’s still a different vibe playing without their usual offensive option.
“It’s definitely different because we usually have three hitters who are the go-to’s and now we just have Love and me,” said Palmer.
