Petro Gazz Angels’ MJ Philips. –PVL PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — MJ Phillips was proud of how Petro Gazz pulled it together and showed composure in completing a sweep of F2 Logistics in the 2023 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference on Thursday at Philsports Arena.
Phillips said the Angels were determined to score one over the Cargo Movers, edging their foes out in a neck-and-neck first and third set to regain their winning ways with a 25-23, 25-13, 25-23 victory.
“We just really wanted to win it. We’re like, nothing drops, we just keep pushing forward, contain the energy, but also put it away,” said Phillips, who scored 13 points off nine attacks, two blocks, and two aces.
The Filipino-American middle blocker nailed the game-winning block on Elaine Kasilag, shutting down the door on F2 Logistics’ hope to extend the game in the third set.
“This is exactly why I want to see, us fighting through the end, not letting our foot off the gas pedal,” Phillips said. “Even if we’re up by two, they’re obviously going to bounce back, which they did in the third set. I’m just happy that we kept pushing.”
Phillips added she also enjoyed playing against former Angel, Myla Pablo, who struggled with six points on 26 attack attempts before she was benched in the third set.
“As you can see, we’re going back and forth a little bit. It was a good rivalry. I think it pushes us to do really well and I think you saw a lot of that on the court. I’m happy for that,” she said.
Petro Gazz coach Oliver Almadro was happy to see Phillips playing well in her first two full games back after she recovered from a minor shoulder issue at the start of the conference.
“We always have an agreement, oh, you will give me these points, you will give me these blocks, and she just says “Yes coach.” Actually, even before, she just really wanted to play and I said, no, relax. Just be patient, we’ll be there in time, and I need you when the right time comes,” Almadro said. “Here she is, delivering. What she promised me, she’s showing. So I’m really happy and I’m proud of her.”
The Angels, who hold a 3-2 record, seek to continue boosting their semifinals bid against the winless Army Lady Troopers (0-5) on Saturday.