Army, PLDT spikers subdue PSL rivals

Defending champion TMS Philippine Army got off to a strong start even as PLDT My DSL drew superb help from its American imports last night in the women’s division of the Philippine Super Liga Grand Prix at Ynares Arena in Pasig City.

Army needed a first-set jolt before overcoming newcomer RC Cola, 19-25, 25-15, 25-21, 25-16.

Savannah Noyes and Kaylee Manns displayed the brand of game expected of them while working well with the locals as PLDT downed Cignal also in four sets, 25-19, 21-25, 25-21, 25-14.

The European league veterans and US NCAA Division 1 stalwarts delivered the key hits which the Speed Boosters sorely lacked to send a strong message to the rest of the league.

Jovelyn Gonzaga fired 16 points, while Thai Luangtonglang Wanitchaya chipped in 15 for the Lady Troopers who had a tough time in the early going as setter Tina Salak and Japanese Yuki Murakoshi had communication problems.

“I was forced to sit Yuki which gave opportunity for RC to score,” said Army coach Rico de Guzman.

PLDT had no problem with that.

“Maybe the biggest advantage we have over other teams is that our imports communicate very well with our locals,” said PLDT coach Roger Gorayeb, referring to language problems other teams have with their Chinese, Thai and Japanese reinforcements.

“These Americans are very vocal and can jell seamlessly with our locals,” he added. “They also played superb volleyball having been to numerous leagues around Europe.”

Maybank and Gilligans were battling it out in men’s action at presstime.