By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA
Just over two weeks after securing their maiden Premier Volleyball League (PVL) title, the PLDT High Speed Hitters struck anew, clinching a second straight championship in grand fashion.
Showing grit and composure against their younger and agile players, the High Speed Hitters turned back Japanese collegiate team Kobe Shinwa University, 21-25, 31-29, 25-22, 25-18, in the winner-take-all Invitational Conference finals for their first back-to-back title in league history.
So impressive was PLDT that it finished the short yet competitive conference unscathed, including a 5-0 record in the preliminaries – a fitting follow up from their equally splendid performance in the PVL On Tour which they won without losing a game.
Team work and perseverance were definitely evident in their impressive run. But for PLDT coach Rald Ricafort, it all boiled down to staying in the moment — particularly in their match against the visiting Japanese squad in the knockout finals.
“Laging kong nire-remind sa kanila na maging present dahil sa sobrang bilis nga ng mga nangyayari,” said Ricafort on facing Kobe Shinwa and their fast-paced style of play.
“Going into this game, yung focus and patience naman talaga namin yung mati-test samin.”
Indeed, their focus and patience paid off, particularly after that tight second set where they dug themselves from an 18-21 deficit before securing the set win. The Japanese refused to bow down easily, challenging them in the next two frames, but in the end, it was PLDT’s ability to remain calm in pivotal moments that led them on top once again.
“Facing a team like Kobe Shinwa, you have to stay in control,” said Fil-Canadian Savi Davison, who was later adjudged the Conference Most Valuable Player.
“Every opportunity they give to us, we have to take advantage of it. I’m glad the game went the way it did and I’m just happy to be here,” she added.
Reveling in their latest achievement, rookie sensation Alleiah Malaluan hoped that this will be the start of something bigger for her new family.
“I’m really happy to play with the team. Grabe yung pagod at perseverance of everyone,” said Malaluan, who contributed 15 points in the championship match.
I’m looking forward to more championships with the team kasi kaya naman namin eh. I’m really happy that I’m playing with these teammates,” she added.
They are just getting started.
