JAJA Santiago provided the key points for PSL-F2 Logistics Manila in a big fightback that allowed the home side to finally win a set in the FIVB Women’s Club World Championship on Friday night.
Down 18-22, Santiago set the tone for the PSL-F2 when she made three aces that led to a 22-22 deadlock, setting the stage for the hosts' 25-23 win in the third set against reigning champion Eczacibasi Vitra Istanbul.
Santiago said she never expected to come up with three straight aces at a pivotal juncture that extended the match.
“Ang iniisip ko lang, maipasok ‘yung bola sa right target ‘yung serve. Kala ko nga po outside,” said Santiago.
[See PSL-F2 Logistics gives reigning champs a scare before bowing in four sets]
Eventually, the might of the Turkish side showed as they won the match in four sets, 25-17, 25-17, 23-25, 25-14, to go unbeaten in Group A despite not fielding their top players.
The National University standout said that moment in the match was a big boost to the squad's confidence moving forward as they look forward to facing Hisamitsu Springs of Japan to start off the classification phase on Saturday.
“Sobrang nakakataas ng morale kasi parang konti na lang, mananalo na kami. Sobrang happy na nakuha namin ‘yung set,” said Santiago.
[See Jaja Santiago proud to hold own against world's best]
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