Two-time Grand Prix MVP Lindsay Stalzer took charge down the stretch and led the F2 Logistics Cargo Movers one step closer to the 2019 Philippines Superliga Grand Prix Finals, after taking down the PLDT Home Fibr Power Hitters, 25-14, 18-25, 25-16, 25-22, at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
Momentum swung wildly between both squads in the first three sets. Thanks to consistent attacking from imports Lindsay Stalzer and MJ Perez, the Cargo Movers zoomed to a 22-11 lead to put away the first set. The second set was all PLDT from the start, as the Cargo Movers’ errors led to an insurmountable 12-5 Power Hitters lead.
F2 Logistics regained form in the third frame, with Stalzer powering in back-to-back hits for a 13-7 lead. PLDT could only come within four, 20-16, before F2 Logistics finished them off with a 5-0 blast.
PLDT had a slim advantage late in the fourth set, 18-16, until their errors propelled F2 Logistics to a 21-20 advantage. Tied at 22, Stalzer then pushed the Cargo Movers to the win with three straight kills.
Stalzer finished with 29 points off 24 attacks, two blocks, and three aces. According to head coach Ramil De Jesus, she needed to be pulled back into focus after a frustrating second set.
“Sabi ko sa kanya, kailangan niya magpakita ng maturity at leadership. Mabuti, nag-respond siya agad kasi kailangan talaga siya ng team,” said the three-time PSL champion coach.
MJ Perez and Aby Maraño paced the Cargo Movers with 19 and 11 points, respectively.
Grace Lazard topped the Power Hitters with 21 points, while Kendra Dahlke added 19.
F2 Logistics can break into their third straight Grand Prix Finals with a win in Game Two on Thursday at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
The Scores
F2 Logistics (3) – Stalzer 29, Perez 19, Maraño 11, Galang 9, Baron 6, Cabanos 0, Macandili (L)
PLDT (1) – Dahlke 21, Lazard 19, Soltones 6, Sta. Rita 6, Urdas 4, Nabor 1, Alvarez 0, Devanadera 0, Eroa (L), Pantone (L)
