Pomi Casalmaggiore. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
Pomi Casalmaggiore was easily having its way against the hosts PSL-F2 Logistics Manila in the first two sets, but the third period proved tricky for the Italian club.
PSL-F2 opened the floodgates and built an 18-13 lead midway through the period and this is where the championship pedigree of Pomi finally showed up for the 25-19, 25-15, 25-21 win.
Pomi captain Valentina Tirozzi said they had to calm themselves down despite the raucous Mall of Asia Arena crowd and retain order inside the playing court.
READ: Pomi advances to semis, sends PSL F2-Manila to classification
“We started making too many mistakes and we had some moments of confusion,” said Tirozzi Thursday as they advanced to the semifinals of the FIVB Women’s Club World Championships in their first try.
“We decided to think about it and restored order in the court. We made less mistakes and just let the other team play.”
Pomi limited its errors to 16 and upped its attacking to the tune of 40 points off spikes.
And the reigning European champions outscored PSL-F2 12-3 in the final moments.
“We’re very happy with the result of the match because it was important for us to go to the semifinals,” said Tirozzi, who had 14 points in the 25-19, 25-15, 25-21, win. “It was a beautiful match against the home team with all these people cheering, even if it was against us.”