Chery Tiggo earned its first win in the 2023 Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference after surviving Akari in five, 25-18, 22-25, 25-19, 17-25, 15-7, Tuesday at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.
After the Chargers forced a fifth set, the Crossovers did not waste time in returning to their smashing ways.
Highly-touted rookies Eya Laure, Imee Hernandez, and Cess Robles connived to double up against Akari, 10-5, en route to the lopsided decider, 15-7.
“Masayang masaya kami na nakapanalo na kami dahil sa iksi ng liga so every win is very important,” said Chery Tiggo head coach Aaron Velez.
The Crossovers improved to 1-1 while the Chargers could not afford another loss after falling to the bottom of Pool A at 0-2.
With Chery Tiggo a set away from the victory, the Chargers wreaked havoc in the fourth, building a huge 19-9 lead on the way to a 25-17 fifth-set-forcing win.
Eya Laure led the Crossovers with 19 points while her sister EJ added 15 points along with 11 digs.
Mylene Paat and Pauline Gaston chimed in 11 points apiece as well in four frames of action.
Eli Soyud paced the Chargers with 18 points on 15 attacks and three blocks, while Faith Nisperos produced 15 points, 11 excellent receptions, and seven digs.
Trisha Genesis delivered off the bench with 15 points as well including three service aces.
Up next for Chery Tiggo is winless Gerflor on Thursday, 9:30 AM. Meanwhile, Akari will try to stay alive on Saturday, 4:00 PM against Creamline.
