THE RC Cola Air Force Raiders took advantage of Petron’s surprisingly sporadic attacks and unusually shaky reception to pull off a 25-20, 25-20, 16-25, 25-22 win on Sunday, handing the Blaze Spikers their first loss in the Philippine Super Liga Grand Prix at the Cuneta Astrodome.
It was a huge win for the Raiders after suffering a five-set loss to cellar-dwelling Foton on Saturday.
Emily Brown, a 6-foot-2 former University of Kansas player, scored 17 points as RC Cola engaged Petron in a tough match that saw numerous lead changes.
Joy Cases scored 14 and Bonita Wise added 13 as the Raiders scored their fourth win in seven matches for second spot, while ending the Blaze Spikers’ six-match streak.
"This is a perfect bounce back win for us," said RC Cola Air Force coach Rhovyl Verayo.
“The girls displayed a strong offense and an even stronger defense. They stuck with the game plan and worked hard to achieve this win. This is a big morale-booster for us. I hope we can sustain it."
"Everybody had a great game," he added. "It must be because of their loss to Foton or because they really want to make it to the finals. I don't know. All I know is that I'm proud of them and they did everything they could to get this victory."
Alaina Bergsma scored 25 points for Petron, while Dindin Santiago had 13.