Bringing in new import Channon Thompson, the Foton Tornadoes passed their first test of the second round, dislodging the Cignal HD Spikers, 25-23, 27-25, 21-25, 32-30, at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
Thompson, who replaced Brooke Kranda right after the first round, dominated the net to the tune of 18 attacks and seven kill blocks.
While Thompson was their most consistent scorer, the Tornadoes pulled crucial points from middle blocker Dindin Santiago-Manabat. Still getting back into form after an ACL tear, Manabat poured in four points in the fourth set deuce, including the match-clinching quick hit.
“I feel our team really stepped up when our opponents were trying to get back. I loved the way we responded,” said Thompson.
“We’re still working on our chemistry, but I’m confident in my teammates,” the American import added.
Manabat finished with 18 points, while Canadian Elizabeth Wendel added 19 markers.
Cignal’s foreign reinforcements did the heavy offensice lifting. Jeane Horton tallied 26 markers, while Sonja Milanovic added 25.
The Tornadoes evened their record at 4-4. They take on the Generika-Ayala Lifesavers (2-6) on Saturday at the Batangas Sports and Convention Center. Meanwhile, the HD Spikers feel to a 3-5 card, and next face the F2 Logistics Cargo Movers (7-1) on Thursday at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
