Petro Gazz overpowered Baguio, 25-10, 25-13, 25-10, to open the Philippine National Volleyball Federation Champions League at the Aquamarine Sports Complex in Lipa, Batangas, Saturday.
A set away from clinching the swift win, the Angels zoomed to a 16-9 advantage over the Lady Highlanders in the third frame.
From there, Jerrili Malabanan, Ces Molina, Seth Rodriguez, and Ivy Perez connived for a 6-0 spurt. They then put Petro Gazz ahead by 13 points, 22-9, its biggest lead in the set.
Blesie Royo managed to stop the bleeding for Baguio with a conversion. Molina followed it up with a kill before Malabanan put the Angels at match-point.
Another ace from Malabanan ended the match.
Molina top-scored for Petro Gazz with 12 points founded on eight hits, three aces, and a block, while Grethcel Soltones chipped in eight points off four aces.
The Angels took an early lead in the standings with a 1-0 card. On the other hand, the Lady Highlanders slipped to a 0-1 record.
Leading Baguio was Mary Ann Atuban and Royo with six points apiece.
“Na-amazed sila sa tournament na ito. This is the first time na sasalihan nila at this level,” Baguio head coach Yul Benosa said. “Na-stars truck ‘yung mga players. They were trying na huwag ma-intimidate sa mga idols.”
Petro Gazz will take on reigning PVL champions Chery Tiggo tomorrow, Saturday at 4:00 PM. Meanwhile, Baguio will face F2 Logistics earlier in the day at 1:30 PM.
“Yung pagiging champion, dala-dala pa rin nila kahit sino ang maipasok sa court. Kami naman, we will stick sa game plan,” said Petro Gazz head coach Arnold Laniog.
The Angels will face his close friend and long-time College of Saint Benilde assistant Aaron Velez in club play anew.
“I’m happy again na makakaharap ko si coach Aaron. Makakatapat ko siya for the second time and I’m so excited.”
