Jaja Santiago smash creates ripple

Jaja Santiago. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

PSL-F2 Logistics Manila may have spun out of the medal race, but the FIVB Women’s Club World Championship already left one major highlight-reel play for Filipino sporting fans.

That of Jaja Santiago smashing a perfectly-timed Tichaya Boonlert toss that landed squarely on the face of Pomi Casalmaggiore libero Immacolata Sirressi  in the second set.

“It concerned me a bit,” said Santiago of the “facial” which went viral on social media as it served as a big, bruising statement from Philippine volleyball to the world’s best.

“I said sorry to her right away,” said Santiago in Filipino.

Santiago topscored for the host club with 11 points, 10 on attacks, including that knockdown punch.

The local club was to face unbeaten Eczacibasi VitrA Istanbul late last night.

Team captain Rachel Anne Daquis said she’s “very proud of my teammates for giving it our very best.”

“For sure the setter. I like very lot the setter,” said Pomi coach Giovani Caprara, referring to F2’s Kim Fajardo.