Dynamic import duo thrilled to carry PetroGazz into first PVL finals stint

PetroGazz Angels. PVL PHOTO

ANTIPOLO CITY, Philippines—Wilma Salas and Janisa Johnson’s partnership spelled instant success for PetroGazz after the Angels advanced to their first finals series in franchise history.

The partnership led the Angels to a semifinals sweep of BanKo that ended in a Game 2 beating, 25-23, 25-18, 25-17, Saturday at Ynares Center here.

Salas and Johnson are both finals veterans in their respective careers but there is still something special about leading a franchise to their finals title round experience.

“It’s a great feeling because it’s the finals, of course. We’ve been practicing and working really hard the whole season for this moment,” said Johnson. “We know it’s not over yet but we are one step closer to what we’ve been working hard the whole season.”

Johnson finished with 13 points in Game 2 against the Perlas Spikers while Salas led all scorers with 23 points, but this match wasn’t the only moment of brilliance for the two.

“I’m so happy and I think with the team, with the coach, with the girls, I think this is just the first step,” said Salas. “I’m excited because this is my first time here and I feel happy for this. We’ll just wait for our next game.”

PetroGazz finished the elimination round with a 9-1 record with its lone loss against Creamline, which also holds a 9-1 slate, and the two teams’ paths are about to cross in the finals.

Johnson, though, isn’t fazed with whoever the team will face in the finals.

“Mindset is extreme focus,” said Johnson. “I put myself in different scenarios and I try to just get a great outcome no matter what so I always pretend we’re down a couple of points during practice, just stuff like that. Just focus and have great mentality no matter what the scenario is.”