Power Hitters repeat against Lady Realtors

MANILA, Philippines — PLDT Home Fibr shrugged off a poor start to fend off Sta. Lucia, 20-25, 25-22, 27-25, 25-18, in a battle of struggling teams in the Philippine Superliga All-Filipino Conference yesterday at the Muntinlupa Sports Center.

Aiko Urdas erupted for 20 points to pace the Power Hitters who checked their five-game skid to improve to 3-6 at sixth spot midway through the crucial second round.

Shola Alvarez contributed eight markers and 15 digs, Gel Caguyuna provided 17 excellent sets while star gunner Grethcel Soltones chipped in 10 points and nine excellent receptions off the bench and playing under the weather.

Though Soltones did not start the match, she definitely saved the best for last, connecting on an attack in the fourth set to seal the match for the Power Hitters who scored their first victory this second round.

“We’re happy to finally end our slump and get back on the win column. We’re struggling this conference but it’s a relief to get another win at last,” said head coach Roger Gorayeb who scored a repeat win over the struggling yet gritty Lady Realtors following their five-setter win in the first round.

“But still, we have a lot of things to work on if we want to go deep in this tournament. We have a lot to improve,” added Gorayeb.

After dropping the first set, PLDT managed to right the ship in the succeeding sets behind Urdas especially in the crucial 27-25 third-frame triumph.