By Jean Malanum
MANILA – PLDT defeated Akari, 25-22, 25-27, 25-21, 25-15 on Thursday night to stay unbeaten in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference at the Playtime FilOil Centre in San Juan.
The victory tied the High Speed Hitters with the Nxled Chameleons on top of the standings at 3-0.
Libero Kathleen Faith Arado produced 26 excellent digs and 10 receptions as the High Speed Hitters wrap up the match in two hours.
“Defense is really the foundation of our pattern. We knew it wouldn’t be easy, especially since Akari is also defense-oriented. They’re all moving and fighting, so we really need to be patient and patient,” Arado, who earned the Best Player of the Game award, said.
Savi Davison finished with a game-high 18 points. Kim Kianna Dy and Majoy Baron delivered 14 points each, while Mika Reyes and Alleiah Malaluan chipped in 10 apiece. Jovie Prado added six points.
The High Speed Hitters made 13 blocks — five more than the Chargers — with Baron accounting for a conference-high seven.
For Arado, the win underscored not just the team’s defensive culture but also the value of their bench.
“The readiness of the bench is really a big thing. Credit to our subs like Keisha (Bedonia). Even though they aren’t always in the stats, they know how to take responsibility when called upon,” she said.
Grethcel Soltones led Akari with 16 points followed by Ivy Lacsina (13) while Ced Domingo and Fifi Sharma chipped in 11 and 10, respectively.
Eli Soyud added nine points as the Chargers slid to 0-3. (PNA)
