Foton grabs lead

Jaja Santiago and Maika Ortiz foiled Stephanie Niemer’s endgame attacks as Foton dented Petron’s ertswhile unbeaten slate to prevail, 25-18, 23-25, 25-14, 19-25, 15-13, last night in the Philippine Superliga Grand Prix at Filoil Flying V Centre.

Santiago, who scored 19 points, played her last game before leaving this weekend for Japan to fulfill school commitments with National University.

Import Lindsay Stalzer topscored with 29 points.

For a team with impressive firepower, it was unforgiving defense that helped the Tornadoes take solo leadership and deal the Tri ACtiv Spikers their first defeat in five starts.

But Foton coach Moro Branislav said he’s not impressed with the way his charges played.

“I’m not impressed,” said Branislav.  “The results may be good but my team will be ready in  about 20 more days.”

Foton is now at the helm with a 4-0 card and most importantly, it defeated what Branislav said is “the strongest team right now.”

Earlier, Cignal bucked the loss of injured import Lynda Morales to turn back Generika, 22-25, 25-19, 21-25, 25-20, 15-4, and post its first win.

The Puerto Rican Olympian sprained her left ankle in the first set and sat out the rest of the match. Her absence created a void in the rotation but allowed the locals to step up.

“That’s what I want to happen,” said Cignal coach Sammy Acaylar.  “Don’t rely on anybody but yourself.”

Janine Marciano had 17 points for Cignal, which climbed out of the rut with a 1-2 win-loss record.