Power Smashers, Water Defenders dispute PVL lead

MANILA, Philippines - The Power Smashers and BaliPure seek to ride the momentum of their opening day victories as they dispute the early lead today even as Perlas shoots for a share of it against Philippine Air Force in the Premier Volleyball League’s Reinforced Conference at the Filoil Flying V Center in San Juan.

The Nes Pamilar-mentored Power Smashers are brimming with confidence after shocking the defending champion Pocari Sweat Lady Warriors with a 25-9, 25-22, 25-21 romp when they take on the Water Defenders at 4 p.m.

Pamilar hopes to draw another solid game from her unfancied but talented crew led by Regine Arocha, Jovelyn Prado and Dimdim Pacres, who combined for 33 points against the Lady Warriors while stressing the need for the rest to step up and contribute.

“There are no superstars for me. All of them must do their best. This is their time to show what they can do. I just don’t want them to show off but to help each other,” said Pamilar.

But BaliPure, which found an offensive option in FEU mainstay Jerilli Malabanan who fired 12 points to backstop three-time NCAA MVP Grethcel Soltones, Risa Sato and Aiko Urdas, is likewise out to nail its second straight win.

Meanwhile, the Perlas Spikers also hope to make the most of their inspiring 23-25, 25-22, 25-19, 25-21 upset over the Alyssa Valdez-led Creamline side as they collide with the Jet Spikers at 6:30 p.m.

The Spikers yielded 15 attack points but made up for this with solid serving while coming through with strong finishing kick from the second set on to pound out the come-from-behind one-hour, 38-minute victory.

Amy Ahomiro fired 17 hits while Dzi Gervacio added 13 markers and Kathy Bersola chipped in nine points as they neutralized Valdez’s 25-hit output.

But Perlas remains wary of Air Force which is also out to bounce back from its 25-21, 19-25, 19-25, 21-25 setback to the Water Defenders the first time out.

“Since they are coming from a loss, they would want to recover. As for us, we don’t want to take it for granted. We’ll take it one game at a time, win one set at a time,” said Perlas skipper Gervacio.

Gervacio and Ahomiro will spearhead the Perlas charge while the Jet Spikers will lean again on Jocemer Tapic and Joy Cases.

Sta. Elena and Cafe Lupe will tangle in the lone men’s match of the tournament backed by Asics and Mikasa at 1 p.m.