PVL: Akari turns back new-look ZUS Coffee for a 2-0 start

Akari Chargers celebrate a point against ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles during a PVL All-Filipino Conference game. -MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

Akari rushed to a second consecutive win in the PVL All-Filipino Conference after a 25-14, 25-21, 19-25, 25-23 victory against revamped ZUS Coffee Thursday night at FilOil EcoOil Centre.

“We’re doing good in the first set and then after, little by little we’re showing quite a bad attitude, they kinda relaxed already,” coach Taka Minowa said after the Chargers missed a chance to sweep the Thunderbelles who snatched the third set.

Ivy Lacsina led Akari, which is coming from a first medal finish in the last PVL Reinforced Conference, with 24 points, all but two on attacks as Eli Soyud is starting to be consistent with 15 points.

SCHEDULE: PVL All-Filipino Conference 2024-2025

Soyud was instrumental in Akari’s opening game win against Galeries Tower with 21 points.

“ZUS Coffee is really tough to play against when it comes to defense. But that’s where our teamwork and heart in the game came in,” Lacsina said.

“For me, I’m just doing my job and following the game plan that coach always emphasizes in team meetings. I also try to make the most of my time on the court and contribute whatever I can to help the team win,” Soyud said, as she aims to fill in the gap left by import Oly Okaro.

READ : PVL: Alas Pilipinas stint boosting Faith Nisperos’ confidence

Grethcel Soltones added an overall performance of 10 points with 11 excellent digs and receptions.

With ZUS trailing 2-1 in sets and threatening to even the game, Akari launched a 9-3 run to take the lead, 23-20. Debuting No. 1 rookie pick Thea Gagate scored back-to-back points followed by a Chai Troncoso, who played in her first game after leaving Cignal, ace to tie the game.

But returning Alas Pilipinas cog Faith Nisperos hammered a sharp kill before a cross-court by Lacsina secured the victory.

Thea Gagate still had a solid debut for the Thunderbelles after finishing with 13 points. Mich Gamit and Kate Santiago, who is also played her first game after her transfer from Farm Fresh, chipped in 12 points apiece. Santiago also had 10 excellent receptions.

Former Cignal veteran spiker Jov Gonzaga also showed up for her new crew with eight points and 11 excellent digs. Julia Angeles caught 14 excellent digs and Cloanne Mondoñedo set up ZUS with 15 excellent sets.

Akari shoots for a third consecutive win against Reinforced Finals’ rival Creamline on Nov. 23 at Candon City Arena. The Thunderbelles look to be better against Nxled on Tuesday at Ynares Center in Antipolo City.