ZUS Coffee pulls off huge upset, ends Petro Gazz’s streak

ZUS Coffee delivered a shocking sweep of Petro Gazz, 25-21, 25-23, 27-25, in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference quarterfinals on Tuesday night, March 18, at the PhilSports Arena. 

The victory not only snapped the Angels’ 10-game winning streak but also pushed the Thunderbelles to the verge of their first-ever semifinal appearance. 

In one of their most balanced performances yet, five players scored in double digits, proving their depth and teamwork against an established PVL contender.

Setter Cloanne Mondoñedo orchestrated the offense brilliantly with 19 excellent sets, while Chai Troncoso led all scorers with 14 markers. Thea Gagate and Jovelyn Gonzaga tallied 11 apiece, while Mich Gamit and Chinnie Arroyo contributed 10 each in a well-rounded attack.

The Thunderbelles also dominated at the net, recording 11 blocks compared to Petro Gazz’s five. Troncoso anchored the defense with five kill blocks, while Gagate added three.

Despite facing a seasoned Petro Gazz squad, ZUS Coffee displayed poise beyond its years, particularly in a thrilling third set. Arroyo went head-to-head with Brooke Van Sickle, exchanging crucial points, while Gonzaga stepped up in the clutch.

With the Angels leading 25-24 and appearing to have secured the frame, Myla Pablo admitted to a block touch, tying the score. Moments later, she misfired on an attack, handing ZUS Coffee match point. 

Gonzaga then sealed the upset with a decisive block, sending the Thunderbelles into celebration.

Van Sickle registered a game-high 18 points, while Pablo scored 14. However, costly errors late in the match proved costly for the Angels, who now need a major turnaround to keep their playoff hopes alive.  

With the series at 1-0, the Thunderbelles will look to close out Petro Gazz and secure a historic semifinal berth in Game 2 on Saturday, March 22, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City.