PLDT looks every bit a serious contender early in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference. But the High Speed Hitters know that early momentum carries little weight without sustained execution.
In a conference where adjustments and consistency separate contenders from pretenders, PLDT’s real test lies in its ability to replicate that level across the grind of the tournament.
Fresh off a commanding straight-sets romp over multi-titled Creamline, PLDT returns to the FilOil Playtime Centre in San Juan on Thursday aiming for a second straight victory – one that could propel the squad into a share of second place and further validate its championship credentials.
Standing in their way is a dangerous Capital1 side bannered by one of the league’s brightest young stars – Bella Belen.
PLDT’s emphatic win was more than just a morale boost. It was a showcase of depth, discipline and defensive grit – the very elements coach Rald Ricafort has been emphasizing in the season-ending conference organized by Sports Vision.
Savi Davison delivered a scintillating 26-point performance, torching Creamline with her efficient scoring while also anchoring the floor defense with 11 excellent digs and 10 receptions for a rare triple-double effort. But the Fil-Canadian spiker was quick to deflect the spotlight.
“I couldn’t have done it alone. Everyone showed up – our fans, our players, our coaches,” she said. “I’m just glad we were able to work together and get it done in three sets.”
Truly, PLDT’s victory was a collective masterpiece. Kim Dy and Jovie Prado provided timely wing attacks, Majoy Baron and Mika Reyes controlled the middle, while veteran setter Kim Fajardo orchestrated the offense with poise. The High Speed Hitters’ balanced attack and relentless floor coverage stifled Creamline’s rhythm from start to finish.
Still, Ricafort remains cautious.
With all 10 teams capable of pulling off upsets in what has become one of the league’s most competitive seasons, he knows sustaining form is the bigger challenge. The parity across the field leaves little margin for complacency.
If PLDT is banking on chemistry and cohesion, Capital1 counters with firepower – particularly from Belen.
The former collegiate standout has been nothing short of explosive in her first two outings. She erupted for 26 points in a four-set triumph over ZUS Coffee, then followed it up with a 23-point effort against powerhouse Nxled despite the Solar Spikers absorbing a shutout loss.
Belen’s ability to score from all angles – whether in transition, off high balls or through sharp cross-court hits or at the backrow – makes her a constant threat. More importantly, she has shown poise beyond her years, carrying the offensive load while adjusting to tighter defensive schemes.
Now backed by reinforcements Shaya Adorador, Ezra Madrigal, Pauline Gaston and Ysa Jimenez, and with middle blockers Cherry Nunag and France Ronquillo ready to contribute, Capital1 is slowly finding its rhythm under coach Jorge de Brito’s system.
The Solar Spikers stumbled against the powerhouse Chameleons, but their opening-game statement win proved they can compete with anyone on a given night.
Their 4 p.m. clash could very well turn into a marquee duel between Davison and Belen – two prolific scorers with contrasting styles but equal impact.
Davison thrives in PLDT’s fluid, multi-option offense, while Belen often shoulders the brunt of Capital1’s scoring responsibilities. Whichever supporting cast steps up could determine the outcome.
The 6:30 p.m. showdown between ZUS Coffee and Akari also promises intensity and fireworks. Despite stumbling out of the gates – including a straight-set loss to the Choco Mucho Flying Titans – the Chargers are determined to leave it all on the court as they chase their first victory and aim to build momentum for the demanding road ahead.
Akari hasn’t seen action since Jan. 31, giving the team ample time to regroup and recharge. With fresh legs and renewed hunger, coach Tina Salak looks to draw strong performances from Grethcel Soltones, Ivy Lacsina, Faith Nisperos, Fifi Sharma, Ced Domingo and Eli Soyud as they seek a breakthrough win.
Meanwhile, the Thunderbelles are equally eager to snap their two-game slide. Missing top middle blocker AC Miner due to injury, the Reinforced Conference runners-up absorbed back-to-back losses to the Solar Spikers and the Galeries Tower Highrisers. Still, they remain confident of staging a strong comeback.
