By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA
Chery Tiggo dug deep in the decisive fifth set to outlast Capital1, 27-25, 23-25, 25-12, 22-25, 15-13, and boost its quarterfinal drive in the Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference at the Filoil EcoOil Arena in San Juan City on Tuesday, Nov. 11.
Trailing 6-8 in the deciding frame, Yunieska Batista spearheaded the Crossovers’ comeback with a blistering 6-0 run to seize a 12-8 advantage that proved to be the turning point of the match.
Oleksandra Bytsenko tried to rally the Solar Spikers with late attacks, but Batista sealed the victory for Chery Tiggo with an off-the-block hit.
Batista erupted for a conference-high 41 points, built on 40 attacks and one block, as the Crossovers claimed their second win against four losses.
“We just played our game and went for it, point by point,” said Batista, who also tallied eight excellent digs.
Ara Galang also shone for Chery Tiggo with 11 points off nine kills and two blocks, while Shaya Adorador chipped in seven points.
Despite the setback, Capital1 evened its slate at 3-3 to share the middle of the standings with Akari, led by Bytsenko’s 34 points and Bela Bellen’s 22.
Capital1’s collapse was marred by costly miscues, gifting Chery Tiggo 30 free points.
