Black Mamba Army battled back from an opening-set defeat to turn back PLDT Home Fibr, 20-25, 25-17, 25-20, 25-20, and stay in the semifinals hunt in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Open Conference at the PCV Socio-Civic & Cultural Center in Bacarra, Ilocos Norte Thursday night.
The power-hitting duo of Royse Tubino and Jovelyn Gonzaga went on an attacking spree by firing combined 36 kills to finish with 24 and 17 points as the Lady Troopers claimed their second win against three setbacks.
“Medyo shaky, pero ang importante, naipanalo naming itong game na ito, otherwise wala na lubog na kami,” said Black Mamba Army coach Kungfu Reyes.
“Good thing meron kaming chance kasi lahat ng standings, nagtatalunan sa ibabaw eh, so importante kung sino makarami ng panalo.”
While Army stayed in the hunt, PLDT Home Fibr remained winless in six games and was eliminated.
Jorelle Singh tried to lift the squad by finishing with 17 points while veteran setter Rhea Dimaculangan had 20 points but the Power Hitters still couldn’t muster enough strength to withstand their rivals.
PLDT Home Fibr coach Roger Gorayeb said he will use their remaining games to gain experience for his young squad.
“Wala na kami magawa kung hindi bumangon na lang,” said Gorayeb.