Grethcel Soltones gave her all in Petro Gazz’s thrilling five-set victory over F2 Logistics on Thursday, with a score of 20-25, 25-22, 25-12, 33-35, 15-9.
After three hours and 25 minutes of intense Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference action, Soltones achieved a career-high performance, scoring 31 points through 26 attacks, four blocks, and a service ace.
Despite her impressive individual performance, the 5-foot-8 wing spiker downplayed her achievement, emphasizing that her main focus was to lead the Angels to victory and improve their chances of reaching the semifinals.
“Actually, hindi ko inexpect yan kasi all I want is my team to go to next round,” said Soltones.
“Hindi ako nagexpect na ganito yung points, ang gusto ko lang panalo at mairaos namin ito the next round hopefully.”
Beyond her point contribution, Soltones also provided a sense of calm for Petro Gazz during the prolonged interruptions and challenges that occurred in the fifth set. Normally a shorter set compared to the first four, the fifth set lasted for 41 minutes.
Even head coach Oliver Almadro acknowledged his difficulty in managing his emotions, but Soltones came to the rescue.
“Aminado naman si Coach O na medyo natetense siya kasi gusto niyang ipaglaban yung dapat sa amin so sinasabihan ko lang siya ‘Coach, relax hayaan natin sila. Kung ano mang desisyon let’s go okay na yun, forget about it and move on’,” shared the San Sebastian product.
“Sabi ko sa sarili ko pa lang I want this game so I need to calm down every crucial times and palagi kong nireremind yung bawat isa na ‘Ate, hindi bago sa atin ito kayang kaya natin ito.'”
With their victory denting the Cargo Movers’ previously flawless record, Petro Gazz is now tied for the top spot in Pool B, both with a 3-1 record and one match remaining. Choco Mucho and Cignal, both at 2-1, are not far behind. Only the top two teams per pool will advance to the semifinals.
Soltones and Petro Gazz will aim to improve their chances of advancing to the next round when they face the Flying Titans on Saturday.
