Chery Tiggo hit the brakes on PLDT’s unbeaten streak

Chery Tiggo showcased title aspirations as they erased PLDT’s three-game winning streak, 25-12, 25-23, 20-25, 25-22, to claim solo third in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference on Tuesday, December 3, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Crossovers handed the PLDT High Speed Hitters their first conference defeat and tallied identical 3-1 records.

Chery Tiggo's tenacity was evident in the fourth set, after slipping a straight-set victory in the third frame. In a narrow finish, they overcame their opponent after mounting a late comeback after falling behind 17–19.

The Crossovers also took advantage of PLDT’s mistakes in service reception to score eight aces. Additionally, they only made 18 of their own mistakes, turning 33 unforced ones into free points.

Cess Robles listed a team-high 17 points off 14 attacks and three aces, while Alina Bicar orchestrated the team’s play, helping four players in Ara Galang, Shaya Adorador, and Pauline Gaston tally a combined 34 markers to backstop Robles’ efforts. 

Jen Nierva took care of Chery Tiggo’s defense with an all-around performance. She received Player of the Game citations after recording 17 excellent digs and 16 excellent receptions.

“I came into the match well-prepared, studying all of PLDT’s tendencies,” said Nierva. “This win shows our hard work, but we know there’s still room for improvement.”

On the other hand, Filipino-Canadian spiker Savi Davison erupted a match-high 27 points as the High Speed Hitters absorbed the loss. 

Erika Santos contributed 13 markers, while Dell Palomata, and Mary Joy Baron added nine and seven points, respectively.

Both teams have one last assignment before closing out the year. Chery Tiggo will face Akari on December 10, while PLDT will aim to bounce back from the loss when they play Petro Gazz at the same date at Philsports Arena.