PLDT kept its semifinal hopes alive, but not without a reminder of what awaits when the stakes get even higher.
The High Speed Hitters shook off a stubborn Galeries Tower side, 25-13, 25-23, 23-25, 25-18, on Saturday at the PhilSports Arena to stay in the thick of the PVL All-Filipino Conference Siklab series semifinal race.
The win pulled PLDT level with Choco Mucho at 4-3, setting the stage for a virtual knockout showdown on November 19 with a coveted Final Four berth on the line.
What began as a seemingly routine afternoon, however, turned into another test of PLDT's consistency. The High Speed Hitters dominated the opening set but lost their edge as Galeries Tower forced its way back into the match, exposing the lapses PLDT knows it cannot afford against Choco Mucho.
“That's one of the biggest lessons we'll take from this game. We cannot afford to be complacent against Choco Mucho,” said libero Kath Arado, who finished with 22 excellent digs.
Savi Davison led PLDT with 21 points and 16 receptions before exiting late in the fourth set with a slight ankle injury. Kianna Dy and Dell Palomata added 10 points apiece, while Jessa Ordiales delivered the match-clinching attack after Galeries Tower saved three match points.
PLDT still controlled the numbers, leading in attacks, 57-47, and blocks, 14-7. But against a Choco Mucho side carrying momentum from its own breakthrough win over Creamline, the High Speed Hitters know the margins will only get tighter.
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