F2 Logistics Cargo Movers’ firepower was just too much as it clobbered Tuguegarao Perlas Spikers in straight sets, 25-18, 25-18, 25-19, to move on the cusp of the first-ever Philippine National Volleyball Federation Champions League title on Tuesday, Nov. 23 at the Aquamarine Recreational Center in Lipa City.
Sans outside hitter Kalei Mau who was not fielded in the game, F2 leaned on its balanced attack to shake off a gritty Perlas side for its fourth-straight victory and move one win away from taking the Champions League crown.
Kianna Dy took the scoring cudgels on Mau’s absence, finishing with 12 points although she got ample support from Majoy Baron and Aby Maraño who chipped in 10 points apiece.
Filipino-American setter Iris Tolenada sustained her fine form with 10 markers while dictating the tempo with her 20 excellent sets.
Nicole Tiamzon and Norielle Ipac paced the Spikers with nine-points apiece but was not enough to topple the still unbeaten Cargo Movers.
Standing on F2’s way for a possible tournament sweep is Cherry Tiggo which they will meet on Thursday at 4pm.
The Cargo Movers, though dominant all-tournament long and yet to drop a single set, remained wary of the Crossovers despite the Premiere Volleyball League Open Conference champions missing the services of star player Jaja Santiago.
"Chery Tiggo is a tough team. Their morale is still high after winning the PVL. Good thing Jaja is not around. We still have the same preparation. Hopefully, everyone will be healthy," said F2 head coach Ramil de Jesus.
The winner of the PNVF Champions League will have the chance to don the country’s colors in the Asian Women's Club Volleyball Championship in May next year.
Meanwhile in the first game, the youthful California Precision Sports took down Baguio City Lady Highlanders, 25-14, 23-25, 25-11, 25-12 to notch its first win through four games in the tournament.
Coming off tough losses in its first three games, CPS, which is made up of amateur standouts from the provinces, finally showed its potential with a resounding four set victory.
Caisey Dongallo spearheaded the squad, scoring all but one of her 25 points on attacks while collecting seven digs. Jelai Gajero provided support with 16 markers and eight digs while setter Krizzle Madriaga dictated the tempo with 19 excellent sets for CPS.
The win should come as a huge confidence booster for CPS heading to a showdown against Petro Gazz on Wednesday at 1:30pm to round up its Champions League campaign. On the other hand, the still winless Baguio is hoping for a graceful exit when it faces Cherry Tiggo later that day at 4pm