After a gruelling stretch where the team lost three consecutive games, the Foton Tornadoes were finally able to break out of their slump, with an intense 5-set victory over the team that started their slump in the first place, Philips Gold. Foton utility hitter, Pamela Lastimosa, has been a consistent contributor for the team during the past four games, as she managed to score in double digits throughout the team’s run.
Why was Foton, one of the hotter teams in the league during the first round, unable to get a win in three straight games? During their loss to Philips Gold, Dzi Gervacio suffered an ACL tear that cast a shadow on the team’s usually happy demeanor. Pam shared with Tiebreaker Times that during the past few games, they found it difficult to enjoy the game when they were on the court.
“Siyempre challenge sa amin na ibalik ‘yung dating game namin na nag-sasaya kami. Kasi nung previous games na talo kami, sobrang down ‘yung laro namin. Hindi kami nag-enjoy sa loob ng court.”
As one of the only bright spots for the team during the losing streak, last year’s captain of the UST women’s volleyball team, Pamela shared that her desire to constantly improve her craft was one of the main reasons for her consistency.
“Minomotivate ko yung sarili ko na every game ginagawa ko ‘yung best ko and to improve.”
Even Foton head coach, Vilet Ponce De Leon, took notice of Pam’s performance during the past few games.
“I’m happy sa performance niya. Kasi when the other players falter, on track pa rin siya. Mapa floor defense or offense, on track siya,” said Coach Vilet.
And what a performance it was, as Lastimosa contributed 17 points, 15 off attacks, and 11 excellent digs during the win.
“Yan yung gusto namin ma-achieve sa lahat ng players namin.”
With the team’s victory over Philips Gold, the team seems to have regained their youthful energy as Nicole Tiamzon and Patty Orendain have found their offensive touch, with both breaking double-digit scoring on the same game for the first time since the Gervacio injury. Foton still has a chance to make it within the top two of the standings once the elimination games are done.
“Very happy and overwhelming na nanalo kami, and nabalik yung saya sa loob ng court. We hope na magtuloy-tuloy na sa upcoming games,” ended Pamela.
