Photo: PVL
The Akari Chargers finally got over the hump.
The Akari Chargers made history by reaching the franchise’s first semifinal after defeating the Farm Fresh Foxies in four sets, 17-25, 25-18, 25-22, 25-23, in the PVL 2024 Reinforced Conference Quarterfinals at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan last Saturday.
Since joining the PVL in 2022, Akari has not yet reached the Final Four of the league, with their highest finish being sixth place during the PVL 2023 Invitational Conference.
Aside from punching their ticket to the semifinals, the Chargers maintained their clean record by clinching their ninth consecutive victory.
Grethcel Soltones delivered another outstanding all-around performance, scoring 17 points from 16 attacks and one block, while also recording 10 excellent receptions and nine excellent digs. Oly Okaro matched her with 17 points, while Lacsina added 12 points.
After sitting out the last two elimination games, Kamille Cal returned to action, fanning out 14 excellent sets. Libero Dani Ravena protected the floor with 17 excellent digs and 10 excellent receptions.
With one more set needed to win, Akari had to dig deep when they were trailing 10-14 in the fourth set. Team captain Michelle Cobb and Eli Soyud rallied the Chargers back to tie the fourth frame at 14-all.
Akari established its own four-point lead, 20-16, but Farm Fresh refused to concede the match, responding with a run of its own to tie the fourth at 22-all after a crosscourt hit from Caitlyn Viray.
However, the Chargers dashed the Foxies’ hopes for a comeback when Camille Victoria thwarted Kate Santiago’s attempt, securing the victory.
Akari bounced back from an opening-set, winning the second and third sets before ultimately overcoming Farm Fresh.
Trisha Tubu led the Foxies in scoring with 15 points, while Colombian import Yeny Murillo and Viray contributed 12 points apiece.
Farm Fresh bowed out from title contention, while Akari awaits its next opponent, which will be either the PLDT High Speed Hitters or the Chery Tiggo Crossovers.
