SMART survived Meralco, 25-20, 23-25, 23-25, 25-12, 15-12, in a no-bearing match of the Shakey's V-League Season 10 Open Conference at The Arena in San Juan on Sunday.
Alyssa Valdez came with 17 points playing in just three sets, while Thai reinforcements Lithawat Kesinee and Wanida Kotruang added 15 and 12, respectively, and Gretchel Soltones chipped in 11 for Smart.
The Net Spikers admitted playing badly against Power Spikers.
"Sobrang pangit ng pinakita namin buti na lang naka-bawi," said Smart team captain Rubie de Leon.
"Galit si coach (Roger Gorayeb) alam niya kasi na hindi 'yun ang laro namin," she added.
Although Smart outplayed Meralco in the scoring departments, (59-43) spikes, (14-8) blocks, and (8-4) service aces, the Net Spikers gave away nine points to the Power Spikers courtesy of their errors (39-30).
Smart will face Philippine Air Force on Tuesday in Game 1 of their best-of-three semifinals.
Chinese import Coco Wang finished with 17 points, anchored on 13 spikes and four blocks for Meralco, while skipper Maureen Penetrante-Ouano had 11 and Stephanie Mercado added 10.
The Power Spikers ended their campaign with a 3-8 win-loss card.
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