Leaning on the duo of Tots Carlos and Isa Molde, Motolite gained crucial footing in the Final Four race of the 2019 PVL Open Conference, ripping into Bali Pure Water Defenders in straight sets, 25-16, 25-21, 25-19, Saturday at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
Carlos churned out an all-around outing to fire a game-high 17 points built on 12 attacks and four service aces, while collecting 12 excellent digs. Molde complimented her UP Lady Maroon partner with 15 markers for Motolite, which rose to 9-5.
“The game today meant a lot to us and after our previous win, I think… And I believe that all the players and the staff came into this game with all the seriousness because it’s the one game that make can make a big difference,” said Motolite head coach Godfrey Okumu, as his side has forged a two-way lock with BanKo Perlas in the third and fourth spots.
Myla Pablo — who is slowly regaining her lethal form following her metatarsal sprain earlier in the conference — had eight points. Bern Flora and Fhem Emnas each contributed five markers in the straight-set rout, while the latter also distributed 16 excellent sets.
“It feels so good. I’m so happy with their performance, they played so well,” Okumu added.
Grazielle Bombita was the lone bright spot for Bali Pure, with 13 points anchored on 10 attacks and three service aces. She laced it with 11 excellent digs in a losing cause, as the Water Defenders fell to 4-11.
Menchie Tubiera flirted with a double-double of nine markers and 11 excellent digs that went down the drain, while May Guillema tossed 12 excellent sets.
Motolite will try to solidify its hold of a semis berth when it faces PacificTown-Army Lady Troopers on Saturday, October 19. Bali Pure, on the other hand, will seek to end its campaign on a high note when it squares off against Petro Gazz Angels. Both matches will be at the same venue.
