The BanKo Perlas Spikers gained the virtual edge in the Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference bronze medal match-up, quelling the Pocari Sweat Lady Warriors in four sets, 23-25, 25-10, 25-14, 25-17, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
BanKo can claim third place without having to go to a third game if the Creamline Cool Smashers close out their championship series against PayMaya.
The Perlas Spikers, after dropping a close first set, adjusted their lineup and easily took the next three sets.
Accorsing to head coach Dong Dela Cruz, they made simple adjustments to fix BanKo’s service reception.
“Nagpasok lamg kami ng ibang tao, para maka-receive kami nang maayos. Once naayos na namin ‘yun, naging smooth naman na ‘yung opensa namin,” said Dela Cruz.
BanKo out-attacked Pocari Sweat, 56-37, and gave up a season-low 16 errors while forcing the Lady Warriors to 26.
Lakia Bright, who was given a special award for setting the league record for points earlier in the tournament, led BanKo with 27 points. Jutarat Montripilia added 19 markers.
Imports Maddie Palmer and Arielle Love topped Pocari Sweat with 14 and 13 points, respectively.
If necessary, Game Three will be on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
The Scores:
BanKo (3) – Bright 27, Montripila 19, Ahomiro 11, Dacoron 7, Roces 5, Tiamzon 2, Emnas 1, Ferrer 0, Gervacio 0, Tan (L), De Jesus (L)
Pocari Sweat-Air Force (1) – Palmer 14, Love 13, Palomata 7, Kasilag 6, Panaga 5, Yongco 3, Semana 2, Racraquin 0, Pantino 0, Antipuesto 0, Tempiatura (L), Balmaceda (L)
