Powerhouse Generika makes PSL debut

MANILA, Philippines — After picking up two conference crowns, Generika-Philippine Army kicks off its bid for another in the 2014 Philippine Super Liga All-Filipino Conference Wednesday.

The Lady Troopers, who ruled the PSL Invitationals and Grand Prix, debut against the PLDT Home TVolution Power Attackers in the women’s division of the volleyball club tournament at 2 p.m. at Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City.

Veteran spikers Rachel Anne Daquis, Jovelyn Gonzaga and Mary Jean Balse make the Lady Troopers the favorites anew, but Generika-Army coach Rico de Guzman noted the tougher competition this conference.

“Almost all of the teams have beefed up their rosters, so it’s really hard to predict our chances,” said De Guzman. “But I trust my team. We’ve been training hard for this competition for the past two months. I know the girls will do everything to defend our crown.”

In the second game, Petron goes for a share of the early 2-0 lead versus Cagayan Valley at 4 p.m. PLDT coach Roger Gorayeb said his Power Attackers are a weary bunch, but expects Charo Soriano, Rysabelle Devanadera, Maruja Banaticla and Sue Roces to step up in their bid for back-to-backs wins versus the Lady Troopers.

“We are a very tired team,” said Gorayeb. “All of my players have full-time jobs, so it’s really difficult for us to practice every day. We know that Army is such a strong team, so hopefully, we can perform above their level.”

In men’s action, PLDT Home Tvolution also opens its campaign versus Systema in the last of a three-game bill at 6 pm.