Bali Pure routs Pocari Sweat in easy semis win

MANILA, Philippines – The Bali Pure Water Defenders made quick work of the struggling Pocari Sweat Lady Warriors to take the lead in their Shakey’s V-League Open Conference semifinals series, Wednesday night, June 29, at the FilOil Flying V Arena.

Team captain and birthday girl Alyssa Valdez unleashed a game-high 24 points to power the Water Defenders to a straight-sets victory, 25-20, 25-19, 26-24. They only need one last win in the best-of-3 series to advance to the finals.

Gretchel Soltones and Amy Ahomiro contributed 11 and 7 markers apiece.

“Muntik na mag cardiac pero no collapse,” said playing coach Charo Soriano.

(Almost, but we didn’t collapse in the clutch.)

Valdez, who turned 23 years old Wednesday, opened the game with 4 service aces.

Bali Pure won the first two sets but Pocari Sweat threatened to steal the third canto to extend the game when Elaine Kasilag put the match in a 24-24 deadlock. But Valdez delivered for the Water Defenders and closed the match 26-24.

“Everyone was just working hard and working together. We needed Alyssa Valdez for the clutch. She’s always there to deliver for us,” added Soriano.

Pocari Sweat suffered their first loss to the Air Force last Monday, June 27, 20-25, 25-17, 25-22, 25-15. They are now looking to tie the series with Bali Pure on Saturday, July 2.

Kasilag and Michele Gumabao both finished with 11 points for the Lady Warriors. – Rappler.com