PETRO GAZZ overcame a late meltdown to defeat Akari, 25-19, 25-18, 20-25, 20-25, 15-7, and finish ninth in the 2023 Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference on Tuesday at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
Djanel Cheng put up seven points and a game-high 14 excellent to win Best Player of the Game honors, steadying the ship after the Angels blew a two-set lead.
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Despite missing out on a semifinal berth, the 28-year-old is glad to finish the campaign on a high note and is already looking forward to the next conference.
“Happy ako na na-end namin ng maayos. Siguro, kalimutan na namin yun kasi wala na kaming magagawa dun. So, moving forward na ulit, training ulit, and paghahandaan na next na liga,” said Cheng.
Grethcel Soltones topped the scoring charts again for Petro Gazz with 19 points while also delivering 11 excellent digs.
Coach Oliver Almadro praised the Angels for showing resolve in the face of adversity.
“You cannot count out Akari, they’re a very talented team, very well coached, very well prepared. So, good thing nakabuwelo kami ng dalawa…we’re happy with all of the players’ contribution and lahat ng ginamit namin kanina nag-contribute.”
He added: “We’re happy we won but kailangan namin mag pahinga then prepare for next conference.”
Christine Soyud and Erika Raagas supplied the offense for Akari with 19 and 14 markers, respectively.
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