Overcoming a lethargic start, the F2 Logistics Cargo Movers regained their lethal form just in time, sending the Generika-Ayala Lifesavers down a tailspin, 22-25, 17-25, 25-16, 25-21, 15-10, to firm up their grip on the semifinals berth in the 2019 PSL Invitationals at the Caloocan Sports Complex, Saturday.
Staring down a precarious two-set deficit, the Cargo Movers leaned on the towering presence of Majoy Baron and Kim Kianna Dy. The twin towers showed the way for F2 Logistics’ late rally, snatching the victory from the jaws of defeat and rising to 4-1 in Pool D.
“Kinausap kami ni Coach [Ramil De Jesus] na hindi pwedeng matatalo lang tayo ng ganyan. And alam namin na we started slow and kailangan namin bawiin sa next sets,” said Dy, who top-billed with 23 points built on 17 attacks, five kill blocks, and a service ace on top of 18 excellent digs.
Clinging on a slim 7-6 edge late in the decider, Ara Galang turned back Jamie Lavitoria to incite a searing 5-0 surge. Dy’s kill block off Fiola Ceballos’ attempt then capped things off for a commanding 12-7 spread.
Though Ria Meneses and Ceballos tried to resuscitate the Lifesavers’ offense, the stifling net defense of F2 Logistics proved too much. The Cargo Movers then shifted into cruise control and completed the come-from-behind win.
Baron fortified F2 Logistics’ wall with an eye-popping eight kill blocks en route to 19 points. Meanwhile, Galang and Desiree Cheng accounted for 12 and 10 markers, respectively.
F2 Logistic playmaker Kim Fajardo ably distributed the wealth for the Cargo Movers, churning out 34 excellent sets to go along with four points. Defensive specialist Dawn Macandili manned the floor with 34 excellent digs and 13 excellent receptions.
On the other hand, the Lifesavers fell further down a four-game pit following an opening day win against Marinerang Pilipina.
Patty Orendain topped Generika-Ayala with 20 points anchored on 18 attacks in a losing cause. Mean Mendrez managed 18 markers, while Meneses chipped in 12.
Ceballos’ triple-double outing of 12 points, 23 excellent digs, and 10 excellent receptions all went down the drain.
Generika-Ayala setter Lavitoria dished out 28 excellent sets, while Bia General manned the floor with 16 excellent digs and 13 excellent receptions.
The Cargo Movers will look to close out their elimination round on a rousing note when they face the Sta. Lucia Lady Realtors. On the other hand, the Lifesavers will try to end their campaign in rousing fashion against the Foton Tornadoes. Both matches will be played on Sunday, October 13, at the FilOil Flying V Centre in San Juan City.
