The Power Smashers made quick work of league leaders Bali Pure via quick sweep, 25-20, 25-23, 25-19, in the Premier Volleyball League Thursday at Filoil Flying V Centre.
The Water Defenders, who were on a three-game winning streak, ran into a spirited Power Smashers squad who sent them to a 7-3 record.
The Power Smashers, for their trouble, improved to 6-4 and climbed from the fourth spot to share the second seed with Pocari Sweat.
“I explained to my players, especially the locals, that this is our situation right now and if we want to enter the quarterfinals we have to work harder than before,” said Power Smashers head coach Nes Pamilar.
“The credit goes to them because they really pushed hard so that we can win in straight sets.”
Kannika Tipachot had a game-high 19 points to lead the Power Smashers while Hyapa Amporn and Jovelyn Prado added 10 points apiece.
Jeng Bualee led Bali Pure with 18 points.
The Power Smashers exploited the Water Defenders porous ground defense, which recorded just 16 excellent digs, with 10 service aces.