Pocari tries to firm up PVL dynasty

Pocari Sweat is building a dynasty brick by brick in the Premier Volleyball League.

It could lay another one on Tuesday when it guns for the PVL Reinforced Conference title against BaliPure in Game 2 of their best-of-three series at Philsports Arena in Pasig.

At the forefront of the Lady Warriors’ formidable offense is import Krystal Rivers, who debuted with 20 points on Saturday in their 22-25, 25-22, 25-22, 26-24 Game 1 victory.

Another win Tuesday would give Pocari a third straight conference title in a league it joined just last season.

Pocari coach Rommel Abella, acknowledging the Water Defenders’ capacity to fight back, said they are ready for BaliPure’s adjustments in Game 2.

Rivers’ sterling performance in Game 1 made the Lady Warriors all the more potent as fellow import Michelle Strizak and local star Myla Pablo accounted for 18 and 16 points, respectively.

BaliPure coach Roger Gorayeb is expected to map out a fierce stand for the Water Defenders to extend the series.

Imports Jennifer Keddy and Jeng Bualee will again join hands with Grethcel Soltones for BaliPure, which made the conference finals for the first time in two years.

Abella said it is crucial that the Lady Warriors hold on to their momentum in Game 2.

“We don’t have a problem taking the lead; it’s in how we’re able to sustain it,” said Abella.