MANILA, Philippines–Back-to-back defending champion Petron got off to a rousing start after sinking newcomer Marinerang Pilipina, 25-21, 25-16, 25-10, in the Philippine Superliga All Filipino Conference Thursday at Imus City Sports Complex.
Except for a brief juncture in the second set, the Blaze Spikers were never threatened as they showcased their superior firepower over the Marineras, who slumped to 0-2.
Mika Reyes, who is turning 25 Friday, led Petron with 10 points, most of them in the middle of the second frame when Petron started to right its course against a resurging Marinera.
After keeping the opening set close, Marinera stormed to a 12-9 lead in the second. But it hardly bothered Petron, slowly closing the gap before Reyes scored on back-to-back drops to give the Blaze Spikers a 15-13 lead they never give up.