PVL: F2 Logistics clinches semis, eases past Foton
F2 Logistics. MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — F2 Logistics vented its ire on also-ran Foton, 25-18, 25-18, 25-14, to secure a semifinal berth in Pool B in the 2023 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Invitational Conference on Tuesday at Philsports Arena.
Following a five-set loss to the Petro Gazz Angels last Thursday, the Cargo Movers made sure to take care of business behind the stellar plays of Ivy Lacsina and Majoy Baron to seal one of the two semis berths from their group.
Article continues after this advertisementLacsina led the way with a game-high 16 points off 11 attacks, three aces, and two blocks, while Baron, who returned to the starting middle blocker this tournament after the former was converted to an outside spiker, continued to deliver for the Cargo Movers with 12 points including two aces.
Baron credited her game to setter Kim Fajardo, who started for Mars Alba, after dishing out 15 excellent sets on top of two markers.
“For me, I was able to bring out my game with the help of my teammates. When we have a good passing, it’s easier to execute plays,” said Baron in Filipino. “I’m also thankful for Ate Kim because she maximized the plays for me. It’s good to be back.”
Article continues after this advertisementF2 Logistics will carry over a 1-0 record heading to the semis round regardless of who will win between Choco Mucho and Cignal for the last semis berth in Pool B as it took down both squads in the first round.
The Cargo Movers will play in another round-robin against Japanese squad Kurashiki Ablaze and Vietnam’s Kinh Bac-Bac Ninh as well as the defending champions and Pool A sweepers Creamline Cool Smashers (1-0) and the winner between PLDT-Chery Tiggo match on Tuesday evening.
“This victory, we’re very grateful because we were able to return to the win column. But we can’t be relaxed and we can’t be overconfident because in the semis, it’s going to be hard battles again. Hopefully, this is a good preparation for the semis,” said F2 Logistics coach Regine Diego, who steered F2 Logistics to their second straight PVL semis appearance.
Aby Maraño was also instrumental for the Cargo Movers with nine points, including the game-winning attack. Kianna Dy had eight markers while Jolina Dela Cruz and Myla Pablo added six each.
Foton, which finished 1-4 in Pool B, battles Gerflor for 11th place on Thursday at 9:30 a.m.
No one from the Tornadoes scored in double figures with setter Jasmine Nabor pacing the team with nine points and seven excellent sets.
