Pocari, NU dispute Shakey’s V-League lead

POCARI Sweat and National University got their campaigns off to a good start, but both teams hope to stay consistent when they dispute the solo 2-0 lead in the Shakey’s V-League Season 13 Open Conference Wednesday.

“The players are more relaxed,” said NU coach Roger Gorayeb. “They’re having more fun, I just hope it will continue.”

Game time is 6:30 p.m. at Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan.

The Lady Bulldogs carved out a 25-21, 25-20, 23-25, 25-21 triumph over Team Laoag, while the Lady Warriors turned back University of the Philippines in straight sets, 25-18, 25-14, 25-22, in last Saturday’s doubleheader.

“We need to play a little more aggressive because NU is a strong team,” said Pocari deputy Rommel Abella, who’s calling the shots as head coach Tai Bundit has yet to return from Thailand.

Team Baguio kicks off its bid at 4 p.m. versus a Team Iriga side gunning for a first victory in two outings.

In Spikers’ Turf, Sta. Elena and Air Force also get their campaigns going at 1 p.m., with the winner joining Cignal and Instituto Estetico Manila on top.

The Lady Bulldogs leaned on the towering Jaja Santiago on opening day, but also found a revelation in converted setter Jasmin Nabor, who dished out 31 excellent sets on top of 10 points.

“She really embraced her new role,” said Gorayeb.

The Lady Warriors’ will be led by former La Salle star Michele Gumabao and ex-NU standout Myla Pablo.