ANTIPOLO — The Akari Chargers got back to their winning ways and handed Chery Tiggo Crossovers their first loss in the PVL All-Filipino Conference in four sets, 25-20, 18-25, 25-22, 25-20, at the Yranes Center, Tuesday.
Dindin Santiago-Manabat was hailed as the Best Player of the Game after exploding for 21 points coming from 16 attacks, four blocks, and one ace.
Faith Nisperos led Akari’s supporting cast with 17 points composed of 12 attacks and five blocks, while Fifi Sharma and Erika Raagas added seven markers each.
The Chargers bucked a slow start in the first set to clinch the opening set win, however, Cess Robles provided spark for the Crossovers to level the match at one set apiece.
Things looked good for Akari in the third frame as they built a five-point lead, but Chery Tiggo clawed its way back for a 20-19 edge before committing crucial errors late which the former capitalized on for a 2-1 lead heading to the next set.
In the fourth canto, the Chargers smelled blood from their prey and finished off the Crossovers for their second victory in three outings.
Akari also got contribution from starters Trisha Genesis and Ezra Madrigal who chipped in six points each, while Jaja Maraguinot had her best outing so far this conference with 18 excellent sets.
Liberos Bang Pineda and Justine Jazareno took care of the floor defense with nine excellent digs each. Faith Nisperos also displayed a stellar defensive performance with 14 excellent receptions with Jazareno tallying six.
On the other hand, Ejiya Laure led the scoring department with 17 points, while EJ Laure and Princess Robles had 14 and 12 markers separately.
Akari will eye for its third win against the Farm Fresh Foxies still at the Ynares Center on Thursday, 4PM.
