Chery Tiggo’s Eya Laure.–PVL PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines–Chery Tiggo blemished the perfect record of Petro Gazz in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference after a 25-15, 27-25, 18-25, 25-23 triumph on Saturday at PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
Eya Laure powered the Crossovers to their second consecutive win with 21 points built around 15 attacks, four blocks and two aces.
“The team really prepared for its match against Petro Gazz,” said Chery assistant coach Brian Esquibel in Filipino after the Crossovers recorded their fourth win in five games. “We saw the enjoyment of the players while working for the win.”
“The second set was very crucial, especially after getting it from the behind. We saw camaraderie from the team. Helping each other until we finish the game.”
Chery assistant coach Kung Fu Reyes took over the head coaching duties left by head coach Aaron Velez, who missed the game after attending to a personal matter but Esquibel faced the media with Reyes struggling with loss of voice.
Chery Tiggo Crossovers.–PVL PHOTO
The Crossovers shocked the Angels, who are coming off a sweep of F2 Logistics on Thursday, as early as the first set, 22-12, before Petro Gazz made it a back-and-forth action in the second frame.
Trailing, Laure evened the playing field at 24 courtesy of a set-extending block that prompted Reyes to high-five his star player from the sidelines.
But it was Shaya Adorador who gave Chery the lead for the first time in the second frame, 26-25, before Laure nailed an ace to secure the set.
Adorador contributed 14 points mostly from attacks while Ponggay Gaston and Princess Robles had 10 points each.
“My teammates worked hard in chasing the ball and defending. We boosted the confidence of each other, that was the key to securing the second set,” Laure said.
Chery also suited up seasoned player Mylene Paat, chipping in two points, despite still not being at 100 percent.
Grethcel Soltones and Aiza Pontillas paced the Angels with 14 points each while Ranya Musa and Jonah Sabete contributed 10 points each in the losing stand.
Chery hopes to carry its momentum into its game against Nxled on November 9 still at PhilSports Arena.