PSL Grand Prix opens Saturday

F2 Logistics vs Foton. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Foton and F2 Logistics renew their rivalry while Generika and Petron clash Saturday at the start of the Asics-Philippine Superliga Grand Prix at Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan City.

The Tornadoes will not only have Ariel Usher and Lindsay Stalzer, they will also have a new foreign coach in Moro Branislav of Serbia, and the comebacking Dindin Manabat in the middle.

Branislav was initially hired to mentor the PSL-F2 Logistics Pilipinas in the FIVB Women’s Club Championships until Foton tapped him to replace Fabio Menta of Italy.

Following league tradition, tickets are free for the inaugural games and fans are advised to be at the venue as early as 10 a.m. Games will be aired live on TV5.

The league will take a break after two playing days to give way to the FIVB Clubs as seven of PSL players and seven other foreign reinforcements will see action for the Philippine squad against seven of the best clubs in the world.

After leaving Petron, Manabat will be reunited with sister Jaja Santiago to power the local crew along with Rhea Dimaculangan, Maika Ortiz, EJ Laure, Sisi Rondina and Patty Orendain.

“Our team has all the ingredients to win the title,” said Branislav of his roster. “But it’s up to me to make the right mixture and achieve that goal. It’s a big challenge to make these talents into one cohesive unit.”

Cohesion is something the Cargo Movers have already perfected with players like Cha Cruz, Aby Maraño, Kim Fajardo, Kim Dy, Mika Reyes, Ara Galang, Majoy Baron, Cyd Demecillo and reigning MVP Dawn Macandili.

Former champion Petron will banner highly rated Stephanie Niemer and 6-foot-5 Serena Warner. It will also have local mainstays Aiza Maizo-Pontillas, Frances Molina, Bang Pineda, Jen Reyes and Maica Morada.

Generika coach Francis Vicente refused to discuss their chances. They will have a low-key lineup led by Trinidad and Tobago national team member Darlene Ramdin and Ukrainian Polina Liutikova.