PHILIPPINE Army scored a quick win in its opening match in the Shakey's V-League Open Conference, making short work of Philippine Air Force, 25-13, 25-22, 25-18, on Sunday at The Arena in San Juan.
Jovelyn Gonzaga, the youngest in the squad, scored 16 points and veteran Mary Jean Balse added 11 for the Lady Troopers, who completed the win in one hour and 11 minutes.
Army proved to be steadier at the net, coming up with 11 blocks compared to just two of the Air Force and had more service aces, 8-2.
The Lady Troopers also capitalized on their opponent's 21 miscues.
"Magkakaibigan naman kami ng Air Force eh," said Army coach Rico de Guzman. “Pakiramdaman na lang, pa-kundisyunan, kung sino ang umangat, 'yun na ang panalo."
From a 10-14 deficit in the second set, the Air Women went on a 10-3 run to snatch the lead, 20-17.
But Army regained control and silenced Air Force with a 5-0 spurt for a 22-20 lead.
Jen Manzano and Joy Cases both had nine points for Air Force, which remained winless in two games.
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