PETRO Gazz’s triple-threat frontline fueled a four-set comeback over PLDT, 12-25, 25-14, 25-22, 25-20, in the 2024-25 PVL All-Filipino Conference on Tuesday at the Philsports Arena.
Scoring options came aplenty for the Angels as Brooke Van Sickle (21 points), Myla Pablo (19 points) and Jonah Sabete (17 points) fired on all fronts to stretch their win streak to three.
Van Sickle, the reigning MVP, had a near triple-double with 12 digs and eight receptions — enough to repel Fil-Canadian ace Savi Davison’s all-around game with 12 receptions and nine digs.
Libero duo Jellie Tempiatura and Blove Barbon delivered on their respective defensive assignments as the former dished out 11 digs and the latter with 14 receptions.
Sabete stays a step ahead
The Angels were left reeling after a surprise 13-point beatdown at the hands of the High Speed Hitters in the opening set.
Sabete, in particular, wasn’t shaken one bit as her and the team’s familiarity with a fellow powerhouse side enabled them to snatch the victory from behind.
“Sobrang tagal na namin kalaban ‘yung PLDT so parang kahit papaano, medyo gamay na rin namin kasi sila. We know din naman ‘yung coaching staff nila, hindi rin talaga sila papatalo sa defense,” the newly-converted opposite hitter said.
“Naisip ko lang na papaluin ko lang ‘to, babasahin ko lang ‘yung blockers. Buti naman kahit papano naging okay ‘yung performance.”
She knew they’d get the job done, but more importantly, the team believed she’ll deliver even as she continues to ease back into the Angels’ starting rotation after a brief layoff from a calf strain.
“Ang laki rin ng impact ng coaching staff na [sinasabihan akong] ‘You can do it, we know you, kailangan ka namin, ganito ka palaban ka.’ Nabo-boost ‘yung confidence ko, kahit minsan pa off [‘yung laro ko dahil] nandyan lang sila palagi,” said Sabete.
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