Lady Troopers sink Rising Suns, grab lead

MANILA, Philippines - Reigning champion TMS-Philippine Army bucked another cold start but recovered in time to beat Cagayan Valley, 19-25, 25-14, 25-14, 25-17, in the women’s division of the Philippine Super Liga (PSL) Grand Prix 2013 volleyball tournament at The Arena in San Juan Friday.

Thai import Luangtonglang Wanitchaya rattled off 20 kills for a 23-hit output as the Lady Troopers battled from an opening set setback with a sweep of the next three in emphatic fashions.

Mary Jean Balse and Jovelyn Gonzaga finished with 11 points apiece while Jacqueline Alarca chipped in 10 hits and Tina Salak set up the team plays with aplomb and chipped in seven points.

It was the Lady Troopers’ second straight win for the early lead in the tournament organized by Sports Core and recognized by the International Volleyball Federation.