Air Force blasts UP, stays in top 4 of PVL

Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

Philippine Air Force dispatched University of the Philippines in straight sets, 29-27, 25-16, 25-22, in the Premier Volleyball League Open Conference Wednesday at Filoil Flying V Centre.

The Lady Jet Spikers improved to 2-1 and stayed at the fourth spot of the while the Lady Maroons toil at the drudge of the league with a 0-3 card.

Dell Palomata and skipper Joy Cases stopped Diana Carlos’ final attempt to ensure Air Force’s second win in three games.

Despite winning in three sets, Air Force wasn’t exactly in autopilot in the third period as UP managed to trim a 16-11 lead and even tied the set at 19.

“I think our position on the floor left us vulnerable to UP’s attacks,” said Air Force head coach Jasper Jimenez. “Palomata wasn’t in front of the net and UP’s players got confident and we weren’t able to really play defense.”

“Good thing we were able to recover and we were able to overcome that part.”

Palomata, who stands at around 6’4,” was the main blocker for Air Force and her absence upfront allowed UP to bring the fight to the Lady Jet Spikers.

Iari Yongco led the Lady Jet Spikers with 15 points while getting ample support from her teammates.

Jocemer Tapic put up 12 points to play second fiddle to Yongco while Mary Pantino and Cases added 11 and 10 points, respectively.

Carlos had a game-high 18 points to lead the Lady Maroons while Isa Molde added 15.