KEY PLAYER. Akari's Grethcel Soltones prepares to serve in their game against Galeries Tower in the Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference at PhilSports Arena in Pasig City on Saturday (Aug. 10, 2024). Soltanes scored 13 points to go with 14 excellent receptions and 11 digs as the Chargers prevailed, 23-25, 25-15, 25-16, 22-25, 18-16, and remained unbeaten in six outings. (Photo courtesy of PVL)
MANILA – Akari banked on import Oly Okaro and local star Grethcel Soltanes to outlast Galeries Tower, 23-25, 25-15, 25-16, 22-25, 18-16, in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference at PhilSports Arena in Pasig City on Saturday.
Okaro scored 32 points on 28 attacks and four blocks in leading the Chargers to a 6-0 card.
Soltanes, on the other hand, chipped in 13 points, including two attacks that extended the match.
Galeries Tower took a 13-11 lead in the fifth set, but Akari fought back behind Soltones and Okaro, who delivered a decisive crosscourt attack to wrap up the match in two hours and 26 minutes.
“Tiwala kami sa bawat isa so I guess ‘di na rin natakot ‘yung bawat isa pumalo or umatake kasi nasa likod ko naman sila (We trust each other so I guess I was not afraid to hit or attack because they were behind me)," Soltones said.
Ivy Keith Lacsina contributed 20 points -- 17 on attacks -- for Akari, which also got six points each from Camille Victoria and Ezra Madrigal.
Chuewulim Sutadta finished with 20 points while Roselle Baliton and France Ronquillo scored 12 points apiece for the Highrisers, who are winless in six starts. (PNA)
