TWO TOWERING imports got Cignal off to a hot start as the HD Spikers swept the RC Cola Raiders, 25-17, 25-23, 25-23, at the opening of the Philippine SuperLiga Grand Prix presented by Asics yesterday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Sarah Ammerman and Lindsay Stalzer quickly showcased their firepower and coach Sammy Acaylar said the HD Spikers didn’t mind tweaking their game to let their American reinforcements shine in the import-laced volleyball club tournament.
The 6-foot-3 Ammerman, who had seen action in the European circuit, unloaded 18 points built on 15 hits, two aces and a block.
Stalzer added 15 points, while Abigail Praca paced the Cignal locals with 11 markers.
“At first [the imports] couldn’t adjust, so we adjusted to their game and left the quick sets to the locals,” said Acaylar.
An Ammerman kill sealed the match after the Raiders, behind imports Emily Brown and Bonita Wise, had pulled within 24-23.
In the second game, Petron outlasted Generika, 26-24, 25-18, 23-25, 25-23, in a battle of two early favorites.
Alaina Bergsma drilled 19 attacks and had four blocks in a 23-point performance.