Bali Pure survives Laoag, wins Game 1 of battle for third

MANILA, Philippines – Despite the absence of captain Alyssa Valdez, the Bali Pure Purest Water Defenders still managed to draw first blood in their battle for bronze against the Laoag Power Smashers in the Shakey’s V-League Open Conference. 

Bali Pure escaped Laoag in 5-sets, 23-25, 25-21, 25-21, 19-25, 15-11, Wednesday afternoon, July 13, at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig. 

“Everyone is really stepping up now. I’m really proud of the team,” said coach Charo Soriano who had a short playing time during the second set.

Janine Marciano led the scoring battle with 25 points, consisting of 23 attacks. Gretchel Soltones and Amy Ahomiro chipped in 20 and 12 markers, respectively, for the Water Defenders.

“I’m very proud of Mik in this match. I hope she sustains her game,” Soriano praised Marciano. 

Bali Pure dropped the first canto but managed to quickly come back in the next two sets. 

Laoag, however, capitalized on Bali Pure’s slew of service and attack errors to snatch the fourth set, 25-19. 

Bali Pure managed to sustain their momentum in the final set to win the game, 15-11. 

The Purest Water Defenders recorded a total of 35 attack and service errors. 

“We had a lot of service errors. We can’t take Game 2 lightly because Laoag is also a good team,” Soriano added. 

Galanza finished with 16 points for Laoag, while Jovy Prado and Mylene Paat added 15 and 13 markers apiece. 

Coming into game two on Saturday, July 16, Soriano emphasized their need to minimize their errors. She also hopes that Alyssa Valdez comes home in time for game 2. 

Valdez is in Singapore as of the moment for the 18th ASEAN University Games. Her arrival date is still indefinite, according to Soriano. – Rappler.com