The Power Smashers might finally have a name sponsor in their next game, after scoring a major opening day upset over defending champions Pocari Sweat Lady Warriors, 25-9, 25-21, 25-21, in the inaugural Premier Volleyball League at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
The Lady Warriors came out in a daze, and the young Power Smashers took full advantage. From the onset, the Power Smashers poured it in from the service line, targeting the Lady Warriors’ weakest receivers. Pocari’s offense simply could not build momentum after taking a 9-25, first-set uppercut.
The following sets saw glimpses of a run from the Lady Warriors, but no comeback transpired.
Power Smashers head coach Nes Pamilar acknowledged the big win. He said that this was certainly unexpected, but a welcome development nonetheless.
“Sabi ko sa kanila ito na ‘yung change niyong magpakilala kasi sabi na natin na hindi sila kasing sikat ng players ng Pocari,” Pamilar remembered telling his players. “Ang ayoko lang ay magkanya-kanya sila. Basta gawin nila lahat para manalo kami ngayon.”
With both denied the use of their imports, Pamilar thought his team had better chemistry.
“Magkakakilala na ‘yung players ko kahit hindi sila teammates lahat so wala nang major adjustments,” the veteran mentor added.
Arellano University standouts Regine Arocha and Jovielyn Prado led the Power Smashers with 12 and 11 points, respectively, while University of Santo Tomas opposite hitter Dimdim Pacres added 10.
The Power Smashers (1-0) take on the Bali Pure Water Defenders (1-0) on Wednesday at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
In her first match with Pocari Sweat, Jeanette Panaga tallied 12 points while Reinforced Conference Finals MVP Myla Pablo managed 10.
Pocari Sweat (0-1) will try to bounce back on Thursday when they also face Bali Pure at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
The Scores
Power Smashers (3) – Arocha 12, Prado 11, Pacres 10, Villegas 8, Marzan 6, Guillema 5, Bicar 0, Kim 0, Simborio 0, Galang (L), Gillego (L)
Pocari Sweat (0) – Panaga 12, Pablo 10, Kasilag 5, Cainglet-Cayetano 2, Nepomoceno 2, Dadang 1, De Leon 1, Alvarez 0, Sy 0, Gohing (L), Valdez (L)
