Petro Gazz Angels are headed back to the PVL Finals. PVL PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines–Petro Gazz completed its stunning comeback against Cignal with a 25-21, 28-26, 15-25, 25-21 Game 3 win on Monday to barge into the finals of the 2022 Premier Volleyball League Open Conference.
After losing the opener, the Angels won two straight games against the HD Spikers, who had an unbeaten run en route to the semifinals, to renew their rivalry against Creamline in a best-of-three showdown for the crown.
Buoyed by its five-set win just 24 hours prior, Petro Gazz unleashed a strong finishing attack in the fourth set to avoid another extended game and wrap up Cignal, which missed the service of star skipper Rachel Daquis in the final two sets due to cramps.
Aiza Maizo Pontillas and Myla Pablo, whose service ace clinched the victory, topscored with 17 points each for the Angels but veteran Chie Saet provided steady presence with her 36 excellent sets along with four points.
Remy Palma chipped in 14 points for the winners while Gretchel Soltones added 12.
Petro Gazz will have a full day to prepare for the Cool Smashers, who are still undefeated after the semifinals after sweeping Choco Mucho, in their third meeting in the PVL Finals since the 2019 Reinforced Conference and 2019 Open Conference.
The finals begin on Wednesday at Mall of Asia Arena before shifting to Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo for Game 2 and Game 3, if necessary.
The HD Spikers, whose heavy rebuild in the off-season helped them go from last place to a semifinalist, will battle the Flying Titans for the bronze medal.