Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
FINDING the needed firepower from a returning star, a more confident Bali Pure disputes solo third spot with Team Iriga Wednesday in the Shakey’s V-League Season 13 Open Conference at Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan.
“I’m so proud of this team—all heart, all out,” said Bali Pure playing coach Charo Soriano after the Water Defenders picked up a thrilling first win with the return of reigning NCAA Most Valuable Player Grethcel Soltones.
Both the Water Defenders and the Lady Oragons target a second victory at 4 p.m.
The winner will move up behind early leaders Pocari Sweat and Air Force, which are both unbeaten in three games.
Cellar-dwelling University of the Philippines and Team Baguio try to crash into the win column in the second game at 6:30 p.m.
In Spikers’ Turf men’s volleyball action, Instituto Estetico Manila shoots for back-to-back victories versus Sta. Elena at 1 p.m.
Soltones and Ateneo star Alyssa Valdez missed the Water Defenders’ first game due to prior commitments in Europe.
While Soltones made it back in time to help the Water Defenders rebound from their opening-day loss, Valdez arrived only yesterday and won’t see action yet this week.
“She still needs time to rest and train,” Soriano said of Valdez, the three-time UAAP MVP.
But Soltones already made a quick impact as the San Sebastian standout unleashed 23 points to power Bali Pure to a gruelling five-set victory over National University, 18-25, 25-18, 19-25, 25-19, 15-13, Monday night.
The Lady Oragons are coming off a first win versus Team Baguio, 25-22, 25-17, 26-24.