V-League: Semis-bound Pocari Sweat downs Iriga City

FILE—Pocari Sweat during its game against National University in the Shakey’s V-League Season 13 Open Conference. Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Undermanned Pocari Sweat eased past Iriga City, 25-16, 25-18, 24-26, 25-20, Saturday to formalize its entry into the semifinals of the Shakey’s V-League Season 13 Open Conference at Blue Eagle Gym.

The Lady Warriors played without their star hitters Michele Gumabao and Myla Pablo for the second straight game and still remained undefeated at 5-0.

With the Final Four in the bag, Pocari Sweat is now eyeing to finish in the top two heading into the playoffs.

“We’re aiming for either one or two and hopefully we’ll finish the elimination round strong to give us momentum going into the semifinals,” Pocari Sweat coach Rommel Abella told reporters.

Elaine Kasilag topscored with 17 points, including four service aces while Rossan Fajardo, Kai Nepomuceno and Lutgarda Malaluan added 12 apiece for the Lady Warriors.

Kasilag put the finishing touches with her hit putting Pocari Sweat ahead, 23-17, in the fourth set.

Shola Alvarez had 15 points for the Lady Uragons, who are on the brink of elimination at 1-4.

Abella said there is no timeframe yet on when Gumabao (abdomen) and Pablo (back) could return.