BACARRA, ILOCOS NORTE — Chery Tiggo head coach Aaron Velez is pleased with what he saw from newcomers Jasmine Nabor and Joy Dacoron on Saturday night at the PCV Socio-Civic Cultural Center here.
Both acquired back in January last year for the Philippine Super Liga Grand Prix, Nabor and Dacoron’s debut with the squad was put on hold after the COVID-19 pandemic scrapped the entire season.
Now in the Premier Volleyball League, the two finally proved their worth as they backstopped the Santiago sisters in the Crossovers’ 25-20, 25-17, 25-6, opening day victory over the PLDT Power Hitters.
“I’m really happy with how the three players performed, but I think they still have to blend in with the system,” said Velez after the victory.
The former Adamson middle blocker led all scorers with 13 points off six blocks while Nabor — who reunited with former National University teammate Jaja Santiago — dished out 16 assists and scored four points in the victory.
Another player who earned praise from the Chery Tiggo tactician is Arriane Layug, who was coming off an injury heading into the Open Conference. She had nine points and three excellent receptions in the win.
Still, the College of St. Benilde coach bared that the three still needs to mix it up a little with the Crossover core.
“Arianne just came back from an injury, Jasmine and Joy started to be part of the team two years ago. So of course there’s still a lot of adjustments with how I coach and hopefully they’ll be able to blend as soon as possible,” said Velez.
Chery Tiggo is currently at the top of the standings along with Creamline after winning their respective debuts.
The Crossovers will face the Cignal HD Spikers next at 6:00 PM on Monday.
