COACH Jasper Jimenez was just relieved Pocari Sweat was able to get by Petro Gazz, saying players are struggling to focus due to exhaustion.
It was only the second match in the PVL Open Conference for the Lady Warriors, but clearly lacked the energy since most of the players are also playing for Air Force in the AFP Olympics where they are the defending champions.
Pocari Sweat battled Petro Gazz in a see-saw battle, winning in five energy-sapping sets on Wednesday at Malolos Sports and Convention Center.
“Hindi maka-focus,” he said.
“Dalawa kasi ang liga namin ngayon, meron kaming AFP olympics. Hindi siya katulad kapag isang liga lang naka-focus lang kami dito.”
Among the Lady Warriors, only Myla Pablo, Jeanette Panaga and Elaine Kasilag are not in the military.
Iari Yongco, Joy Cases, Dell Palomata, Jozza Mae Cabalza, Mary Anne Balmaceda, May Ann Pantino, Wendy Semana, Gena Andaya, Jellie Tempiatura and Angel Mae Antipuesto are seeing action in the AFP Olympics.
They have a hectic schedule of playing thrice-a-week in the AFC Olympics, while the PVL also has three playdates in a week.
“Dagdag (pressure) kasi defending champion ka. Kailangan talaga hindi magrelax. Hindi nga nagrelax pero bumababa ang kumpyansa,” he said.
“Puro laro na nga kami dapat mas experienced kami kaso hindi pa namin makuha ‘yung timing at saka rhythm,” said Jimenez, adding that Lady Warriors try to practice in the morning before their PVL matches.
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