PLDT to start Hurtt, Sareea anew in Game 2 vs Army

MANILA, Philippines – PLDT Home Ultera is sticking to its original game plan of starting American imports Victoria Hurtt and Sareea Freeman when it goes for the kill against Army in Game 2 of the Shakey's V-League Season 12-Reinforced Conference Cup finals on Sunday at The Arena in San Juan City.

"All I want from them is to intimidate Army with their blocking and height," said PLDT coach Roger Gorayeb, referring to former US NCAA Division I standouts Hurtt and Freeman.

If everything fails, Gorayeb said he can go to his locals the way they did the last game.

It can be recalled that Hurtt and Freeman faltered in Game One that almost cost the Ultrafast Hitters the series opener.

But Alyssa Valdez, playing her first game this conference after finishing her commitment with Ateneo and nursing a back injury, and the locals took charge and carried PLDT to a dramatic 16-25, 20-25, 26-24, 29-27, 18-16 victory to gain a 1-0 edge in their best-of-three showdown.

The power-hitting Valdez unloaded 25 hits including 22 on kills, most of which came in the final three sets when the Ultrafast Hitters mounted a comeback and steal the win from the Lady Troopers.

"Her presence alone inspires players and also sow fear in the hearts of the opposing team, that's how important she is to this team," said Gorayeb referring to Valdez, the reigning Open and Collegiate Conference MVP.

Valdez also got help from NCAA MVP Gretchel Soltones, who filled the slack in the absence of Freeman and Hurtt.

"She stepped up for us, she came through when we needed it most," said Gorayeb, who also coaches Soltones at San Sebastian.

Gorayeb though will need Freeman and Hurtt to come through this time.

"We expect Army to adjust so we will need them (Freeman and Hurt) to play strong for us to have a chance," he said.