Defending champions F2 Logistics Cargo Movers moved closer to the 2018 Chooks to Go-Philippine Superliga Grand Prix Finals after dousing the retooled Foton Tornadoes, 25-22, 25-23, 23-25, 25-22, at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
F2 Logistics had to contend with a Foton side that had just regained the services of six-foot-five Jaja Santiago from the UAAP.
Still, the Cargo Movers shone with their steady defense, accuracy, and poise to best the Tornadoes. F2 Logistics remained staunch, coaxing 39 errors from the Tornadoes, while only giving up 23.
Foton’s errors came at the costliest times, with their own missed hits ending the second and fourth sets.
“Nag-execute kami at nagtiwala sa isa’t isa. Alam naman natin kung gaano kalakas ‘yung Foton. Nagtiwala kami talaga sa gameplan na hinanda namin,” said F2 Logistics setter Kim Fajardo, who was an all-around presence with 31 excellents sets, 15 digs, and six points.
American winger Kennedy Bryan led the Cargo Movers with 15 points, while reigning Most Valubale Player Maria Jose Perez added 14.
Channon Thompson powered in 22 points, while Elizabeth Wendel managed 15 for the Tornadoes. Jaja Santiago contributed 10 points in her first PSL match of the season.
The Cargo Movers can enter the Finals with a win in Game Two on Thursday at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
The Scores
F2 Logistics (3) – Bryan 15, Perez 14, Nunag 9, Cruz 7, Maraño 7, Fajardo 5, Galang 0, Morente 0, Yoshioka (L)
Foton (1) – Thompson 22, Wendel 15, Santiago 10, Manabat 9, Ortiz 4, Perez 4, Carlos 3, Sy 1, Aganon 0, Rosario 0, Vukomanovic (L)