Only two players reached the double-digit threshold for Motolite in their five-set triumph over Bali Pure, Saturday afternoon.
Both of them were Trinidad and Tobago imports Channon Thompson and Krystle Esdelle. The twin towers produced a combined 51 points; Thompson led all scorers with 27 points, while Esdelle pummeled 24 of her own.
While no local scored in proportion to their two reinforcements, they made sure to contribute in their own ways.
“It takes the effort of so many people like on the court [and] off the court, it seems each player has to contribute,” Thompson gushed.
“At the end of the day, a team is only as strong as its weakest link. And if we’re not all contributing, it’s not going to be a one man show.”
All but five locals logged in a point for Motolite, scoring a total of 28 markers. Ayel Estrañero got their offense churning with 19 excellent sets, while Thang Ponce protected the floor with 24 excellent digs and 18 excellent receptions.
The scoring outburst from the two imports was Motolite’s main source of power. Still, the points they generated from blocking and service were equally important.
Net defense and service aces were two of the eye-popping differences for Motolite versus Bali Pure, as these helped power their comeback from two-sets down en route to a thrilling win that got them closer to a Final Four spot.
The youth-laden team generated 13 and eight points from blocks and aces, respectively, in comparison to Bali Pure’s six rejections and six aces. Ai Gannaban fortified Motolite’s wall with five kill blocks, while Isa Molde hammered two aces.
“It makes our job, so much easier, so much less stressful,” the 25-year-old beamed.
“Because we know we have their support, not just in words, but in action.”
