Reeling from consecutive losses to start their 2019 PSL Invitational campaign, Foton Blue Energy cracked into the winner’s column as they vented their ire on the PLDT Home Fibr Power Hitters, 25-15, 25-20, 25-18, Monday at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
“Of course, happy. Coming from a two-game deficit, siyempre magandang boost ‘to,” bared Tornadoes head coach Aaron Velez.
Behind a balanced scoring barrage, the Foton churned out a strong start. They seized command and controlled the tempo in all the sets to hike their record to 1-2 in Pool A.
Shaya Adorador, who struggled to find her form in the first two games, regained her hard-hitting ways. The product of UE rained down 13 attacks en route to a game-high 15 points. She also collected nine excellent receptions and six excellent digs.
CJ Rosario and Elaine Kasilag were also steady forces on offense. The former supplied 12 markers built on five blocks, while the latter chimed in 10 points.
EJ Laure and Marian Buitre contributed eight markers apiece for the Tornadoes, who mounted a 44-28 differential in the attacking department.
Foton setter Gyzelle Sy delivered the goods with 20 excellent sets. Meanwhile, defensive specialist Jen Reyes manned the floor with 17 excellent digs and six excellent receptions.
“Bago kami magsimula, sabi ko dun sa mga bata na bigay natin yung best natin. Iba pa din ‘yung may panalo,” Velez added. “Sa skills naman talaga… Gumanda yung pasa namin, yun naman talaga yung pinagtutuunan namin ng pansin. And importante rin sa amin ngayon yung opensa.”
Jerrili Malabanan finished as the lone twin-digit scorer for PLDT with 11 points, all from attacks.
Jorelle Singh managed seven markers, while Gretchel Soltones was limited to just four points.
The Power Hitters did not have the services of head coach Roger Gorayeb in the match due to sickness.
PLDT playmaker Jasmine Nabor tossed 16 excellent sets on top of five markers, as her side slid to 1-2 in Pool A.
Foton look to build from this win as they take on the F2 Logistics Cargo Movers on Tuesday, October 8, Bacoor Strike Gym. On the other hand, PLDT try to get back on track against the Cignal HD Spikers on Thursday, October 10, at the Malolos Sports and Convention Center.
