Shorthanded Akari overcame a slow start to extend sister team Nxled’s winless streak to seven games, securing a 21-25, 25-20, 26-24, 25-18 victory in the 2024-25 PVL All-Filipino Conference at the Philsports Arena on Thursday.
Already missing Grethcel Soltones, who is recovering from “jumper’s knee,” the Chargers suffered another setback early in the second set when team captain Michelle Cobb went down after saving a second ball.
She appeared to have sustained a neck injury and was stretchered off the floor. Cobb was initially assessed in the dugout before being transported to Cardinal Santos Medical Center.
Despite the challenges, Akari rallied to improve its record to 4-4, placing them in solo seventh.
Kamille Cal, who was also dealing with some elbow pain, stepped in for Cobb for the remainder of the match.
“We just want to create a culture on this team. As long as we unite and play as a team, that’s when we can win,” said Akari head coach Taka Minowa.
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The Chameleons came out strong in the fourth set, taking a 10-6 lead, but Akari quickly responded as Cams Victoria, Ivy Lacsina, Fifi Sharma, and Faith Nisperos turned the tide, pushing the Chargers to a 21-14 advantage.
Lacsina led the way with 17 points, including 14 spikes, two aces, and a block, while Nisperos contributed 15 points and eight excellent receptions.
“Happy with this win kasi yun nga po galing kami sa talo kaya boost itong pagkapanalo na ito sa amin,” said Lacsina.
Eli Soyud was also instrumental, posting 15 points on nine attacks and six blocks. Victoria rounded out the scoring with 10 points in a match that lasted two hours and 26 minutes.
Akari will look to extend its winning streak when it faces Capital1 on February 1.
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Chiara Permentilla led the Chameleons with 20 points and nine digs, but the loss extended Nxled’s losing streak to 14 games, dating back to the 2024 Reinforced Conference.
Lucille Almonte added 13 points on 10 attacks and three aces, while Lycha Ebon finished with 11 points.
Bang Pineda delivered an outstanding defensive performance, recording 14 excellent receptions and 14 excellent digs.
NXLED’s next game will be against Creamline on Tuesday.
