BaliPure sinks UP, bolsters V-L semis drive

MANILA, Philippines - Import Kate Morrell unleashed a 24-hit game as BaliPure rolled to its third straight victory, overpowering a young University of the Philippines side, 25-13, 25-23, 25-17, to bolster its semifinal drive in the Shakey’s V-League Season 13 Reinforced Conference at the Philsports Arena in Pasig yesterday.

Morrell, the 6-0, 25-year-old power-hitter from Alabama, imposed her will on the net and unloaded 19 attack points, powering the Purest Water Defenders to the 65-minute romp, their third straight-set win in a row after a four-set defeat to the UST Tigresses.

Amy Ahomiro came away with nine hits, setter Kay Manns and Sue Roces chipped in seven points apiece and Dzi Gervacio added five markers for BaliPure, which outplayed UP in spikes (42-25), blocks (7-2) and service (8-2).

“We’re really working hard together and it has been great,” said Morrell, who spiked her impressive outing with three blocks and two aces.

Pocari Sweat likewise posted its third straight win after an opening game loss, clipping Alyssa Valdez and Customs, 25-22, 25-22, 25-14, later in the night to join BaliPure at second at 3-1 behind first semifinalist UST (5-1).

“We’re finally gelling because we’re making an effort to bond not only on the court but also outside of it,” said BaliPure assistant coach Charo Soriano.

The Lady Maroons, third placers in the last Collegiate Conference of the league backed by Mikasa as official ball and Accel as official outfitter, dropped to 2-4 and virtually bowed out of the Final Four race.