MANILA – ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles secured its franchise’s maiden victory after a 19-25, 25-23, 25-22, 25-15 win over NxLed Chameleons in the PVL 2nd All-Filipino Conference on Tuesday night at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City.
Guimarasnon Jovelyn Gonzaga spearheaded the offense with 23 points, built on 20 points (on 67 percent efficiency) and three blocks, to go with 12 excellent digs as the Thunderbelles improved to a 1-1 win-loss slate.
“Sobrang happy na naipanalo namin ‘yung team,” Gonzaga said during her Player of the Game interview. “Nagstep up din ‘yung mga bata and credit din sa mga coaching staff kasi maganda ‘yung pagpa ikot ni coach Jerry (Yee) sa mga tao.”
The former Central Philippine University Golden Lions standout also said that it was a total team effort for the Thunderbelles that led to their first-ever PVL win since joining the league last year.
“Palagi kong sinasabi sa interviews na kailangan kong mag step up, kasi kapag nag step up ako, susunod din ‘yung teammates ko, and ang laki ng tiwala ko sa potential ng mga teammates ko,” Gonzaga said.
“Lahat talaga kami nagcontribute for this win; it is really a total team effort, and palagi kong sinasabi sa kanila na huwag lang nilang dadagdagan ng yabang, konti yabang lang pero nasa lugar,” she added.
Thea Gagate chipped in 16 points built on 10 spikes, five blocks and an ace, while team captain Cloanne Mondoñedo orchestrating the Thunderbelles’ offense with 17 excellent sets.
Chiara Permentilla led the charge for the Chameleons with 19 points while Lucille Almonte added 12 points, eight digs and five receptions. They dropped to 0-2 win-loss record.
Meanwhile, PLDT High Speed Hitters weathered a fierce three-set challenge from the Galeries Tower Highrisers for a 27-25, 25-22, 25-23 victory.
Savannah Davison anchored the High Speed Hitters’ offense with 28 points, including 26 attacks, as they tied the Akari Power Chargers on top of the standings with 2-0 win-loss record./PN
