Akari suffers power outage in loss to Petro Gazz
A slow start doomed Akari’s chances of securing an upset over Petro Gazz, falling to the Angels in four sets in the 2023 PVL All-Filipino Conference Thursday night at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
The Chargers fell behind early and often, bowing to their more experienced counterparts, 15-25, 19-25, 25-22, 16-25, to suffer their fifth loss in seven outings.
Erika Raagas was the lone bright spot for the team, as the bomber from Cagayan de Oro delivered the best performance of her professional career so far: 19 points off 16 kills, two blocks and an ace.
But even Raagas’ record-setting performance wasn’t enough to carry the load for Akari, who had no other player score in double figures.
For the first time this season, Dindin Santiago-Manabat failed to break 10 points and finished with nine markers off eight hits and a block.
On the other hand, Petro Gazz showcased a balanced assault led by an energized Grethcel Sotlones with a season-best 20 points highlighted by 16 kills and four aces.
Aiza Pontillas added 15 markers even as Angels middle blockers Rem Palma and MJ Phillips toyed with the Chargers’ defense to combine with 23 points.
With the victory, Petro Gazz advanced to the semifinal round.