Petro Gazz entered the win column after defeating newcomer Foton, 25-23, 22-25, 25-22, 25-20, in the 2023 Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan, Thursday.
The Tornadoes were just within two late in the fourth when their spiker Mary Rhose Dapol committed an attack error before Rem Palma denied Foton’s attack for a four-point Angels lead, 23-19.
Jonah Sabete then flunked her service to give one back to Foton but Grethcel Soltones and Palma went back-to-back via a crosscourt kill and a service ace, respectively, for the win in two hours and 12 minutes.
“I’m happy na nakadeliver na ng first win yung team namin, we really need it before the (VNL) break so kailangan namin makabuwelo going to the next games,” said Petro Gazz head coach Oliver Almadro.
With the Angels at set point in the third, 24-20, the Tornadoes got two straight points off a Nene Bautista point and a Petro Gazz miscue. However, Sabete finished the frame with a through-the-block hit.
The Angels earned their first win after losing to Cignal last Tuesday to improve to an even 1-1 slate in Pool B for fourth.
Soltones had 17 points on 14 attacks, two service aces, and a block, while Sabete pumped 15 points.
Aiza Maizo-Pontillas was spectacular all-around with 13 points, 13 digs, and 12 excellent receptions, while Palma also got 13 points of her own.
Libero Cienne Cruz also dazzled with 18 digs and 14 excellent receptions.
Shaya Adorador led Foton with 17 points while Jasmine Nabor was an attacking setter with 10 points on seven attacks and three blocks along with 12 excellent sets.
The Tornadoes will return on Saturday against Choco Mucho, 4 p.m., at the same San Juan venue.
On the other hand, Petro Gazz will have a long break before facing Farm Fresh on July 11, 9:30 a.m., at the Philsports Arena.
