The Akari Chargers entered the PVL 2024 All-Filipino Conference with high hopes of reaching the semifinals. However, their goal remains elusive as the team is still in the process of integrating new players like Grethcel Soltones, Ced Domingo, and rookie Max Juangco, who were added during the offseason.
Let’s take a look back at how Akari performed in the recently concluded All-Filipino tournament.
Akari collided with contenders right from the start as they faced the Cignal HD Spikers and the defending champions, Creamline Cool Smashers, in their first two games.
The Chargers lost to both teams in four sets, but it showed a glimpse of its potential once they start to piece things together. Despite that, it was a slow start for Coach Raffy Mosuela and his squad.
In the next game, Akari vented its ire on the Farm Fresh. The Chargers made quick work of the Foxies with a clean sweep, propelling them into the winning column.
Grethcel Soltones delivered her best performance for the black and pink team, scoring 16 points and tallying 10 excellent receptions.
In the following game, Akari struggled against the Petro Gazz Angels and was defeated in three sets.
Eli Soyud was the only Charger to score in double digits during the game, with 13 points.
However, the Chargers bounced back immediately in the following match against the Nxled Chameleons.
The middle blockers duo of Fifi Sharma (13 points) and Domingo (12 points) fueled Akari to a sweep of its sister team.
After a convincing win, it looked like the Chargers were ready for their cosmic clash with the Choco Mucho Flying Titans and the PLDT High Speed Hitters. Unfortunately, they were sent back to Earth.
Akari held its ground, but it still was not enough as it suffered consecutive straight-sets losses.
With the team struggling, a veteran knew it was time to lead the pack back on track.
Dindin Manabat-Santiago turned back the hands of time in the next two matches. She led Akari to three-set victories against the Galeries Tower Highrisers and Capital1 Solar Spikers with 16 and 25 points, respectively.
Up next were the Chery Tiggo Crossovers — Akari’s most important game in the conference. With a win, they would have a chance to advance to the semifinals.
Unfortunately, the Chargers were defeated in straight sets by the Crossovers and had to say goodbye to the semifinals.
Despite falling short of its goal, Akari stood back up and ended its conference on a high note.
The Chargers shut out Strong Group Athletics to secure 7th place with a 5-6 record.
It’s safe to say that the outcome was not what everybody expected. It’s easy to say that the team should have won more with the talent that they have, but one should not forget that building a championship takes time.
As team captain Michelle Cobb said, “…hopefully this is all just part of the process for Akari.”
