Nisperos-less Akari puts on brave stand against Creamline in conference-ender

Pasig City – The Akari Chargers held their ground in a four-set defeat to the still-undefeated Creamline Cool Smashers, 28-26, 14-25, 23-25, 22-25, in the second PVL All-Filipino Conference 2023 at the PhilSports Arena.

The Chargers played their last game this conference without the services of Faith Nisperos (back injury) and Trisha Genesis (fever).

Even without two vital cogs, Akari gave the powerhouse Creamline a good fight until the very end.

In the first set, the Chargers averted a collapse and survived a Creamline fightback after surrendering a 10-point lead to take the opener.

The Cool Smashers immediately turned things around and dominated the second frame.

In the third and fourth sets, Akari did its best to stay within striking distance. However, Creamline displayed its championship poise and nailed the dagger to secure the win.

Dindin Manabat and Erika Raagas led the scoring for Akari with 13 and 10 points, respectively. Fifi Sharma added nine markers with six coming from the blocking department. In total, the Chargers built a wall against a hard-hitting Creamline squad, tallying 16 blocks.

Moreover, surprise starter Janine Marciano and Roselle Baliton chipped in six points each.

On the other hand, Tots Carlos erupted for 23 points of the bench, while Jema Galanza and Jeanette Panaga posted 16 and 12 points separately.

The Chargers ended with a 5-6 record.