Yeny Murillo was unstoppable in the fifth set as Farm Fresh survived Galeries Tower in a five-set thriller, 25-22, 35-37, 23-25, 25-20, 15-10, securing their first win in Pool A of the 2024 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference on Tuesday at the Philsports Arena.
The Colombian outside spiker delivered 29 crucial points, including eight in the decisive set. She also had 16 excellent receptions and 10 excellent digs, helping the Foxies claim their first victory in the tournament.
Murillo scored five consecutive points in a blazing 6-0 run in the final frame, turning a 5-6 deficit into an 11-6 lead for Farm Fresh.
Roselle Baliton and Andrea Marzan – along with a few errors from the Foxies – kept the Highrisers in the game. That led to a 4-1 swing that cut the lead to just two points.
However, it was too late for Galeries as Murillo and rookie Maicah Larroza sealed the match after an hour and 28 minutes of play.
“This game showed both good and bad aspects of the team, so we’ll adjust accordingly in training to get the win in our next game,” said Foxies head coach Shota Sato through an interpreter.
Trisha Tubu and Caitlyn Viray supported Murillo with 18 points each in the victory. Ckyle Tagsip contributed 15 markers, including four blocks.
Team captain Louie Romero delivered 27 excellent sets. Meanwhile, defensive ace Janel Delerio gathered 25 excellent digs and 12 excellent receptions.
Farm Fresh aims to sustain its momentum when they face Nxled on Saturday at 1:00 PM at the same venue.
On the other hand, the Highrisers dropped to 0-3 at the bottom of Pool A.
Thai import Chuewulim Sutadta led Galeries with 19 points, 19 excellent receptions, and 10 excellent digs.
Graze Bombita and France Ronqullo added 17 points each, while Baliton contributed 14 markers.
The Highrisers will look to secure their first win against Creamline later that day at 3:00 PM, at the same venue.