By NIKOLE JAVIER
Petro Gazz made quick work of United-Auctioneers Army with a straight set win, 25-13, 25-12, 25-19, in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference Saturday, Nov. 19, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Angels, who improved their record to 5-2 at the third spot, fended off the Troopers’ late comeback attempt in the third frame to assure themselves a semifinal seat.
Lindsey Vander Weide’s 20-point finish off 14 attacks, four blocks and two aces was enough to boost the Angels in the one and a half hour affair that saw the Troopers go winless in eight outings.
Myla Pablo, who had a mix of up-and-down games for Petro Gazz, ended the match with a down-the-line kill after committing a net violation in the prior rally.
Aiza Pontillas also chipped in 12 points including the crosscourt attack that put the Angels at match point.
Following Creamline and Chery Tiggo in the next round, Petro Gazz is seeking to build momentum as it deals with one more assignment against F2 Logistics next week.
“‘Yon iyong una naming objective coming here sa game whether Army na nasa ilalim o kung sino man. Kailangan namin gawin mag-build ng momentum going into the semis. So, good thing na nakuha namin in three sets. Nakuha namin ‘yong objective coming into this game,” said Petro Gazz coach Rald Ricafort.
For Army’s side, import Laura Condotta finished with 12 points as the lone bright spot in the losing affair.