‘Experienced’ Air Force enters V-League finals for the first time

Philippine Air Force. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Philippine Air Force has reached new altitude as it entered the finals of the Shakey’s V-League Open Conference after escaping Laoag in five sets, 25-14, 25-20, 19-25, 21-25, 15-10, Saturday at San Juan Arena.

May Ann Pantino launched the rocket that pushed the Jet Spikers to their first title series as they await the winner between the Bali Pure and Pocari Sweat, which were playing as of posting.

Jet Spikers head coach Jasper Jimenez said it all came down to the intangibles during the fifth set, after his players dropped the third and fourth to the rallying Power Smashers.

“Pinataas na lang ang morale kasi ayaw na nilang matalo,” said Jimenez who steered PAF to a 6-1 record, a league best, in the eliminations. “May desire to win kahit kumapit nang husto yung Laoag.”

Jimenez added the experience of his players was a vital factor in their series-clinching win.

“Talagang malaking factor yung experience dahil siguro yung service namin na improve at kinapitan talaga nung mga veteran kahit nakuhanan kami ng set.”

PAF found its offensive groove and rained down 57 successful spikes on the Laoag field and also sent out 10 service aces.

Judy Caballejo was the top gun for PAF with 23 points while Pantino added 17 points of her own.

Joy Cases and Jocemer Tapic also finished with double figures with 14 and 10 points, respectively.

Jema Galanza led the Power Smashers with 20 points while Mylene Paat and Jovelyn Prado had 14 and 13 points, respectively.