Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net FILE PHOTO
BOTH first-time finalists, Philippine Air Force and Pocari Sweat don’t know what to expect when the Shakey’s V-League Season 13 Open Conference championship series fires off this Wednesday.
So the top two seeds, both bannered by veteran spikers, intend to just stick to what works for them.
Although it could mean getting off to a slow start again for the Lady Warriors, Pocari star Michele Gumabao would rather see the positive in this team trait.
“At least we know we can perform under pressure,” Gumabao said of the Lady Warriors’ come-from-behind wins.
Game 1 of the best-of-three title showdown is set at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday at Philsports Arena in Pasig City
Aside from Gumabao, the Lady Warriors have leaned on Myla Pablo and Elaine Kasilag to gain a shot at the crown right on their maiden run.
The No. 1 Jet Spikers also reached the Finals for the first time. Their best finish so far was fourth in 2014.
“I think our experience will be a big factor,” said Air Force coach Jasper Jimenez, who’s banking on Judy Caballejo, May Ann Pantino and Joy Cases.
Riding on their solid elimination run, the Jet Spikers completed a 2-0 semifinal sweep of Team Laoag to clinch the first championship berth over a week ago.
But the Lady Warriors, pushed to the limit yet again, had to go through the wringer against Bali Pure where they rose from a 0-1 series deficit in the Final Four.
“I think our slow start is our trademark,” said Pocari coach Rommel Abella. “Good thing is we always get to come back.”
The Lady Warriors, of course, know they can’t just rely on end-game poise against the Jet Spikers, who dealt their lone loss in the elimination, 20-25, 25-17, 25-22, 25-15.
“We’re in the Finals because of teamwork and trust in each other,” said Pablo.