Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Philippine Air Force took advantage of an undermanned Bali Pure side to win, 25-23, 14-25, 25-19, 25-16, in the Shakey’s V-League Season 13 Open Conference Monday at Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan.
The Jet Spikers leaned on newcomer Dell Palomata, who shone with 16 points, 10 from kills and five service aces.
“Nag-double time talaga kami kasi stars yung nawala sa amin eh,” said Air Force coach Jasper Jimenez, who had to deal with the losses of Rhea Dimaculangan and Maika Ortiz. “Hindi talaga pwedeng bumalik kami sa wala kasi may expectations sa amin eh.”
Judy Ann Caballejo added 13 points, while May Ann Pantino and Jocemer Tapic got 10 each.
After a woeful second set, Air Force regained its ground behind Palomata in the third set and sustained the flow in the fourth, turning a close 13-10 lead to a 22-12 advantage.
“Siguro we need more practice pa. Although organized na kami ng konti, nangyayari pa rin yung struggles. Naka-recover naman kami at nakapag-adjust sa third and fourth sets,” Jimenez said.
The Water Defenders sorely missed key cogs Alyssa Valdez and Grethcel Soltones, who are currently holding volleyball tours in Europe.
Amy Ahomiro topscored for Bali Pure with 13 points, while Dzi Gervacio and Ella de Jesus had 12 markers apiece.