PLDT escaped Petro Gazz’s fiery assault to prevail 21-25, 31-29, 25-21, 21-25, 15-13 for a share of the lead in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City Thursday night, Feb. 23.
Mich Morente and Mary Anne Mendrez conspired for 36 kills and erupted for 21 points apiece for the High Speed Hitters, whose victory improved them to 3-1 that created a four-way logjam at the helm with Creamline, Chery Tiggo and F2 Logistics.
PLDT had to dig deep to destroy Petro Gazz’s rock-solid net defense by firing 74 attacks, half of which from Morente and Mendrez.
Still, the Angels finished with 14 blocks including six from MJ Phillips in a match that lasted for two hours and 42 minutes.
PLDT also turned to its strong service by posting eight aces, while converting Petro Gazz’s unforced errors into 33 points.
Jovielyn Prado also shone for the High Speed Hitters with 15 points, while Dell Palomata contributed 12 points.
Petro Gazz slipped to a 2-2 mark to tie with Choco Mucho in the middle standings despite Phillips’ 24-point production.
Aiza Pontillas and Grethcel Soltones also finished with 19 and 17 points in a losing effort.