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Manila Bulletin devider Sports devider Volleyball devider Chargers outlast High Speed Hitters to clinch PVL Reinforced Conference bronze

Chargers outlast High Speed Hitters to clinch PVL Reinforced Conference bronze

Published Nov 30, 2025 05:30 pm

At A Glance

  • The consolation triumph somehow eased the stigma on their failed attempt at eclipsing their runner-up finish last year after losing to Petro Gazz in the semifinals.
Akari celebrates its bronze-medal finish in the PVL Reinforced Conference. (PVL image)
Akari celebrates its bronze-medal finish in the PVL Reinforced Conference. (PVL image)
Akari dug deep in the crunch to outlast PLDT, 15-25, 25-23, 21-25, 26-24, 20-18, and clinch the bronze medal in the 2025 Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Sunday, Nov. 30.
Riding a morale-boosting fourth-set victory, the Chargers fended off the persistent attempts of the High Speed Hitters before a service ace from Ced Domingo and a smart return from Eli Soyud sealed their match win.
The consolation triumph somehow eased the stigma on their failed attempt at eclipsing their runner-up finish last year after losing to Petro Gazz in the semifinals.
American import Annie Mitchem was splendid throughout the two hour, 24-minute match, exploding for 36 points including timely hits in the pivotal moments of the fifth set, while Grethcel Soltones was equally impressive after delivering 14 points.
PLDT came close to winning it after a down-the-line spike from Savi Davison sent them to a matchpoint advantage, 14-13.
But Mitchem’s crosscourt kill saved the day for Akari, extending the set as both teams refused to give up.
A service error from PLDT’s Jovy Prado, which sailed to the net, proved to be the match’s turning point as Akari used that momentum to deliver the last two crucial points for the win.
Domingo finished with nine points including two blocks, while Fifi Sharma added eight points for the Chargers, who survived the High Speed Hitters’ 75 attacks and banking on their 10 service aces.
Davison pumped in 30 points while Anastasiia Bavykina had 28 in a losing effort for PLDT, which failed to extend its dominance after winning the On Tour and Invitational crowns.
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