The Akari Chargers fended off the gutsy Galeries Tower Highrisers in five nail-biting sets, 23-25, 25-15, 25-16, 22-25, 18-16, to remain unbeaten in the PVL 2024 Reinforced Conference at the PhilSports Arena last Saturday.
Akari had to dig deep to clinch its sixth consecutive victory in as many outings, engaging in a 2-hour and 26-minute battle with Galeries Tower.
Oly Okaro once again fueled Akari with 32 points, comprising 28 attacks and four blocks, while Ivy Lacsina contributed 20 points, including 17 attacks.
The Chargers were on the verge of suffering their first loss in the conference as they were down 12-14 in the deciding set. However, Grethcel Soltones made crucial plays down the stretch, scoring four straight points out of her 13 to turn things around for Akari. With the fifth set tied at 16-all, Okaro nailed the last two points to seal the win.
Akari, leading 2-1, could not finish the job in the fourth frame as Galeries Tower built a 21-16 lead and never looked back, extending the match.
The Chargers recovered from a shocking opening set loss and dominated the Highrisers in the second and third sets.
Chuewulim Sutadta led Galeries Tower with 20 points and 12 excellent digs, while Roselle Baliton and France Ronquillo added 12 points each. Alyssa Eroa protected the floor with 30 excellent receptions and 21 excellent digs.
Akari will seek their seventh straight win against their sister team, Nxled Chameleons, on Thursday, August 15 at the same venue.
