MANILA, Philippines — Rivals Petron and F2 Logistics look to dispose of their respective semifinal oppoents to set the stage for their fifth consecutive title duel today in the Philippine Superliga All-Filipino Conference at Muntinlupa Sports Center.
The defending champion Blaze Spikers, who went through the elims undefeated, seek to sustain the charge in their 7 p.m. duel with Cignal while the Cargo Movers shoot for their expected finals berth versus dangerous Generika-Ayala at 4:15 p.m.
As the Top 2 ranked teams, the Blaze Spikers and the Cargo Movers enjoy twice-to-beat edge in their Last-4 assignments.
“From here on, pahirap nang pahirap ang laro. Hopefully, tuloy-tuloy yung ganito naming kundisyon,” said Petron coach Shaq delos Santos after making shortwork of Sta. Lucia, 25-12, 25-14, 25-16, in the quarterfinals.
HD Spikers mentor Edgar Barroga said his crew led by Rachel Ann Daquis, Mylene Paat and Royse Tubino are ready to challenge the spotless Petron.
“It will be a tough challenge, but I know with the right preparation and focus, we can pull off a massive win over the reigning champions,” said Barroga, who needs to neutralize the firepower of Frances Molina, Sisi Rondina, Bernadeth Pons and Aiza Maizo Pontillas over at Petron.
Meanwhile, the Cargo Movers know they can’t let their guard down against the Lifesavers, who draw confidence from their upset of F2 back in the first round.
“We’ll be coming into the semifinals believing that we can win over them again. We already did it before, we will work hard to do it again.”said coach Sherwin Meneses.