MANILA, Philippines – The PetroGazz Angels dropped a set for the first time this conference but still powered through against the Banko Perlas Spikers to win in 4 sets, 25-23, 25-11, 22-25, 25-20, in the Premier Volleyball League on Wednesday, June 12, at the Filoil Flying V Centre. 

After a surprise stumble in the 3rd frame, the Angels recovered to stay solo on top with a perfect 6-0 record at the start of their second-round campaign. 

Cuban player Wilma Salas powered the team with 37 points off 35 attacks and 2 blocks while making 15 excellent receptions as American Janisa Johnson also added 24 points. 

PetroGazz was threatened from the get-go as the Angels were forced to rally back from an 18-21 deficit before Salas’ back-to-back attacks denied Banko’s efforts. 

The Angels rode on their hot start, but surprisingly succumbed to a 2-8 deficit against Banko at the start of the 3rd set. 

Banko Perlas – which did not start imports Kia Bright and Yasemin Yildirim – relied on its local players in stealing the set that sent PetroGazz to its first set loss this conference. 

The Perlas Spikers management said Bright is resting her knee while Yildirim is recovering from a flu. 

Nicole Tiamzon led the Spikers with 20 points off 16 attacks, 3 aces and 1 block while making 17 excellent digs. 

Banko Perlas fell to 2-4 in the standings. – Rappler.com