Reinforced Conference bronze medalists BanKo Perlas Spikers started their quest for redemption in the PVL Open Conference with a tight win over Iriga-Navy Lady Oragons, 25-14, 19-25, 25-17, 25-9, at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
The Perlas Spikers encountered their lone speed bump in the second set after a spell of bad receptions opened the door for an Iriga blowout. The rest of the way, however, BanKo dominated through sheer offensive prowess.
“Siguro first game, first game jitters,” said BanKo head coach Dong Dela Cruz of his squad’s sole slip-up. “Pero happy naman kami sa pinakita namin kasi nga may kulang kami na player. Good performance naman.”
BanKo played without starting opposite hitter Sue Roces, who suffered a sprained right wrist in their final practice yesterday. Roces will most likely be out until next week.
Nicole Tiamzon towed the Perlas Spikers with 16 points, while Dzi Gervacio and Joy Dacoron each managed 15 markers.
Former FEU Lady Tamaraw Rizalie Amaro topped Iriga with 10 markers.
Perlas play again tomorrow against fellow first-day victors Petro Gazz Angels at the Imus City Sports Center. The Lady Oragons face the Tacloban Fighting Warays on Wednesday at the Malolos Sports and Convention Center.
The Scores
BanKo-Perlas (3) – Tiamzon 16, Dacoron 15, Gervacio 15, Villanueva 10, Ahomiro 5, Emnas 3, Ferrer 1, Bersola 0, Doromal 0, De Jesus (L)
Iriga-Navy (1) – Amaro 10, Madulid 8, Eguia 7, Bombita 6, Acuna 5, Cabriana 4, Guyguyon 2, Mendoza 0, Parin 0, Ramas 0, Ticar (L)
