BaliPure and Customs eye the last two semifinals seats when they take on separate foes today in the Shakey’s V-League Reinforced Conference at Philsports Arena.
BaliPure will ride on the crest of its three-game winning run when it runs into faltering Laoag at 6 p.m., while Customs encounters sinking Coast Guard at 4 p.m.
Both teams hope to join University of Santo Tomas and Pocari Sweat in the next round.
After dropping their first match against UST, the Water Defenders rolled past their next three opponents, including the Customs crew led by their former marquee player Alyssa Valdez.
Katharine Morrell and Kaylee Manns have also so far worked on their chemistry with BaliPure locals like Amy Ahomiro, Dzi Gervacio and Chario Soriano.
The Water Defenders are coming off a 25-13, 25-23, 25-17 triumph over University of the Philippines where Morrell fired 24 points.
But the Power Smashers hope to spoil the Water Defenders’ bid.
Laoag coach Nes Pamilar said they are out to prove they can win even against a team with imports by banking on local players like Grethcel Soltones, Jorelle Singh and Aiko Urdas.
Customs, meanwhile, will have Valdez teaming up with Thai imports Kanjana Kuthaison and Natthanicha Jaisaen, while Coast Guard looks to rely on a low-key local crew led by Ann Necesito and Roxanne Madulid.
At 0-5, Coast Guard may have a tough time against Customs, who aim to lean on teamwork rather than depend on Valdez alone.