American import Stephanie Niemer displayed her all-around skills but Petron credited team effort for its 25-17, 25-22, 25-19 win over F2 Logistics yesterday in the Philippine Superliga Grand Prix at Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan.
Niemer, one of seven foreign players who will represent PSL-F2 Logistics Manila in the FIVB Women’s Club World Championship next week, produced 15 kills, two blocks and four aces for 21 points while Frances Molina chipped in 12 on six kills and six of the team’s total 14 aces.
“I’m happy because our performance is improving every game,” said Petron coach Shaq Delos Santos following the 72-minute win, the Tri-Activ Spikers’ second in as many starts.
“Our offense was on point and our services were very impressive. We just have to work harder in training, especially now that we will be having a three-week break. I know our locals still have something to show,” added Delos Santos.
The league will resume on Nov. 3 to give way to the World Clubs slated Oct. 18 to 23 at Mall of Asia Arena.
Aiza Maizo-Pontillas also tallied nine hits while 6-foot-5 Serena Warner had eight points and provided the defensive presence for Petron, which ruled the season-ending conference two years ago.
With their import Hayley Spelman yet to arrive, the Cargo Movers banked on Sydney Kemper while Cha Cruz and Aby Maraño tried to spark a rally late in the deciding set, turning a 13-20 disadvantage into a manageable 19-23 deficit.