Enduring not-so-ideal conditions and numerous power outages, the BanKo-Perlas Spikers pulled clutch hits from import Kia Bright to survive the Creamline Cool Smashers, 22-25, 25-16, 25-23, 17-25, 15-11, in the Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference at the People’s Gym in Tuguegarao City.
With Perlas down 7-11 in the decider, Bright powered in five hits to fuel BanKo’s game-ending 8-0 run to nip the early-season favorites.
Both squads had to deal with three power interruptions spread throughout the match. Perlas head coach Dong Dela Cruz said that his team simply stayed focused to earn their first win.
“Hindi na namin kontrolado ‘yun mga ganoong bagay. Kaya sabi ko kanila na mag-focus lang kami, stick lang sa game plan namin and nag-work naman,” said Dela Cruz.
Bright finished with 19 markers, while Thai reinforcement Jutarat Motripilia added 29 points, 13 digs, and 10 excellent receptions.
Kuttika Kaewpin managed 22 points for Creamline, while four-time PVL MVP Alyssa Valdez added 20.
BanKo (1-0) will gun for a second straight win when they face defending champs Pocari Sweat Warriors (0-1) tomorrow at the same venue. Creamline (1-1) will try to bounce back against undefeated PayMaya High Flyers (2-0).
The Scores
BanKo-Perlas (3) – Montripilia 29, Bright 19, Ahomiro 7, Emnas 4, Devanadera 2, Roces 2, Gervacio 0, Tan (L)
Creamline (2) – Kaewpin 22, Valdez 20, Gumabao 10, Aseric 9, Sato 8, Morado 5, Galanza 0, Gohing (L)
