Kai Sotto tears ACL during B.League 2025 season game
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Akari collects second win in All-Filipino Conference
Akari marred the debut of Thea Gagate and return of Jovelyn Gonzaga to overcome ZUS Coffee’s test, 25-14, 25-21, 19-25, 25-23, in the 2024-25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference at the FilOil EcoOil Arena in San Juan on Thursday, November 14.
Ivy Lacsina paced the Chargers, which had already defeated Galeries Tower on the first day of the season and had won two in a row for a solid 2-0 start.
After gaining a 16-13 advantage in the fourth set, debutante rookie Gagate attempted to keep the Thunderbelles in the match before Gretchel Soltones hammered a down-the-line kill, propelling Akari on a 23-20 lead.
Chai Troncoso then came through with a massive serve ace to square the match at 23 apiece.
However, Faith Nisperos and Lacsina delivered back-to-back sharp kills, shattering ZUS Coffee’s comeback attempts.
“Actually, we’re doing good in the fourth set, and then little by little, we’re showing quite bad attitude. It’s kind of relaxed already. Also, just because we already adjusted our serving, that’s why we were able to make a lot of passes,” said Chargers head coach Taka Minowa.
PHOTO COURTESY: PVL MEDIA BUREAU
Lacsina recorded a game-high 24 points anchored on 22 attacks, an ace, and a block to lead the Chargers.
Eli Soyud maintained her strong performance after posting 15 markers, 14 of which came from attacks, while Soltones tallied a triple-double with 10 points, 11 excellent digs, and 11 excellent receptions.
Akari will attempt to sustain their momentum when they face Creamline on November 23 in Candon, Ilocos Sur.
Meanwhile, ZUS Coffee fell to a 0-1 win-loss record to start the tournament.
Gagate led the Thunderbelles with 13 points on 11 attacks, a block, and an ace. Michelle Gamit and Kate Santiago both finished 12, while Gonzaga delivered an all-around performance on her debut, posting eight markers and 11 excellent digs.
ZUS Coffee will aim to secure their first win of the tournament when they face Nxled on Tuesday, November 19, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.
