The young and thundering Power Smashers have, so far, shown great character to extend their Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference matches.
In another five-set duel, the Power Smashers vanquished the Creamline Cool Smashers, 25-23, 21-25, 25-17, 20-25, 15-13, for their second win at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
After trading inconsistent performances in the first four sets, the fifth frame was incredibly erratic from both sides. At first, Creamline took control after consecutive hits made for a 6-2 lead. The Power Smashers, however, quickly caught up and tied the match at 10. Errors from Creamline sealed a 14-12 Power Smashers. The last point was a microcosm of the entire match: overworked throughout, Creamline star Alyssa Valdez soared for a backrow hit, only to be stifled by young Arellano standout Andrea Marzan.
“Nawawala yung kumpyansa kaya kanina, sinabi ko sa kanila na tiwala lang. Pinatataas ko lang yung morale at tiwala nila sa isa’t isa,” said Power Smashers head coach Nes Pamilar. “Kung anong nangyari kung bakit natalo, kung ano ang naging problema, yun ang pinractice namin.”
The match was decided at the service line, as the Power Smashers rained 16 service aces on Creamline. They also tallied 11 blocks.
Lady Chiefs duo Regine Arocha and Prado powered in 18 and 16 points, respectively, while Kath Villegas added 13 markers.
The Power Smashers have marked their second win in four matches.
Valdez essayed another Herculean effort with 27 points, while San Beda standout Cesca Racraquin managed 16 markers.
Creamline drop to a 1-2 slate.
The Scores
Power Smashers (3) – Arocha 18, Prado 16, Villegas 13, Pacres 8, Bicar 7, Marzan 7, Guillema 8, Simborio 2, Sta. Rita 2, Galang (L)
Creamline (2) – Valdez 27, Racraquin 16, Remulla 9, Soriano 8, Bravo 6, Cabanos 2, Patnongon 0, Palad 0, Ibisa (L)