PLDT spikers whip Cagayan Raiders bomb Lady Maroons

MANILA, Philippines — PLDT Home Telpad got a new moniker, but kept its old superb form to grab the solo lead Tuesday in the Shakey’s V-League Season 11 Open Conference at Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan.

Laurence Ann Latigay and Gretchel Soltones fueled the attacks as PLDT, now known as the Turbo Boosters, surprisingly swept defending champion Cagayan Valley, 25-23, 25-23, 25-21, to stay unbeaten in three games.

Latigay and Soltones combined for 22 spikes, nearly half of PLDT’s 45 total, to repulse the relentless Rising Suns.

Earlier, Air Force rebounded with a 25-21, 25-22, 25-18 thumping of winless University of the Philippines to improve to a 2-1 record.

Maika Ortiz and May Ann Pantino combined for 20 points as the Raiders overwhelmed the Lady Maroons in attacks, 53-33.

“I gave all my players the needed exposure,” said Air Force coach Clarence Esteban, who had the luxury of resting former MVP Sandra delos Santos and libero Jill Gustilo. “In fact, I didn’t use a time out and let them make the adjustments inside the court.”

Latigay finished with 14 points, including 11 kills and half of PLDT’s four blocks, while Soltones also shone with 13 spikes.

PLDT coach Roger Gorayeb said the Turbo Boosters, who have yet to drop a set in three games, have flashed more than their attacking prowess.

“We put up a good defensive job and reception,” said Gorayeb.

Former MVP Suzanne Roces continued to impress with nine points and veteran setter Rubie de Leon, who accounted for all of PLDT’s 27 excellent sets, also had a couple of service aces in a seven-point effort.

The Rising Suns slipped to 1-1, while the Lady Maroons’ bid of gaining the next round dimmed after dropping their fourth match.