DINDIN MANABAT exploded for 23 points as Akari broke a three-game spell with a 25-18, 25-19, 23-25, 25-19 victory over Army in the Premiere Volleyball League All Filipino Conference at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City on Tuesday night.
Unable to complete the shutout win, the Chargers charged back strong in the fourth set behind Manabat’s awesome hitting that led to 20 attacks.
The seasoned campaigner, who moved to Akari to provide the leadership and experience for the league’s new squad, added two spikes and an ace in a vintage performance.
Chiara Permentlla also dished out an all-around performance of 13 points, all from the attack line, and 10 excellent receptions and eight digs, while Ezra Madrigal added 10 points, including three blocks, to help anchor the team’s two-hour and 18-minute victory.
“Well, congrats to my players for our first win. We keep on trying every single day to really train and I’m happy for them and I’m really grateful because we’re performing well,” Akari head coach Jorge Souza de Brito said.
Army fell to 0-3.
The Chargers had the chance to close out the Lady Troopers in the tight third set but Jane Gonzales scored on a 1-2 play that broke a 23-all count and put Army at set point. Erika Raagas then committed an attack error, enabling the Troopers to extend the match.
“We’re struggling in the beginning because the [other teams] are really stronger than us and they played better this time than our three matches before,” De Brito said. “But we are always trying our best and I’m sure that we can bring more surprises like last year.”
Bang Pineda had 19 excellent digs and 10 excellent receptions for Akari while Janine Marciano and Eli Soyud combined for 12 points.
On the other hand, Royse Tubino led the Lady Troopers, who have now dropped their 16th consecutive game, with 20 points along with 13 excellent receptions.
Jeanette Villareal added 12 markers while Anggela Nunag finished with 18 excellent receptions and 17 excellent digs.