Army, Smart clash for Shakey’s V-L No. 2 slot

PHILIPPINE Air Force looks to book its place in the quarterfinals against winless Philippine National Police even as Philippine Army and Smart collide for solo second in the Shakey’s V-League Open Conference today at Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan.

Riding high on a three-match winning streak, the Air Women hope to become the fourth team to reach the six-team quarterfinals at the end of the elimination round.

But the Lady Patrollers are entering the 2 p.m. game on survival mode as they look to get the inside track for the last quarterfinal berth against Far Eastern U and Navy.

The Lady Troopers and the Net Spikers clash in the second game with both squads looking to bag the No. 2 spot heading into the next round.

Army holds a 4-1 record, while Smart is just half a game behind at 4-2 and determined to close out its elimination round campaign on a winning note.

The Net Spikers have played the entire tournament with a shorthanded roster. But help came last week in the form of Thai standout Phee Nook Kesinee, who powered the Net Spikers to victory over Navy.

Stopping  Phee Nok will be foremost on Army coach Rico de Guzman’s gameplan.

“Kesinee is a strong player,” said  de Guzman. “But if we work on our blocking and floor defense, we will have a good chance of winning.”

Setter Tina Salak returned to the Army squad against Meralco last Friday, leading the team to a straight set win. Left-handed spiker Jovelyn Gonzaga and former league MVPs Mary Jean Balse, Nene Bautista, Michelle Carolino and Rachel Daquis are expected to make their presence felt at the net.

After opening the tournament with two straight losses, the Air Women have bounced back with three straight.