The Nxled Chameleons fought hard but fell short against the PLDT High Speed Hitters, 15-25, 17-25, 25-22, 22-25, to begin their PVL 2024-2025 All-Filipino Conference campaign at the PhilSports Arena yesterday.
Newly-appointed Nxled team captain Chiara Permentilla put on a show with an all-around performance of 21 points, 15 excellent receptions, and 10 excellent digs.
Lycha Ebon contributed 15 points composed of 12 attacks, two blocks, and one ace and 10 excellent digs, while rookie Lucille Almonte added nine points and 14 excellent receptions.
Down two sets, the Chameleons refused to go down without a fight.
Jaja Maraguinot, who was re-inserted in the third set, made wonders for Nxled’s offense, pulling the strings to help the Chameleons build a 17-13 lead.
Fiola Ceballos capped off PLDT’s 6-3 run to cut Nxled’s lead to one, 20-19, but Nxled created more separation behind Krich Macaslang’s net defense and Permentilla’s clutch offense to extend the match to a fourth set.
The High Speed Hitters regained their rhythm in the fourth set, establishing a 17-8 advantage, but the Chameleons showed no quit in them as they rallied back to stay within shouting distance, 20-22.
PLDT’s Savi Davison, however, spilled Nxled’s hopes of a comeback she nailed the dagger to secure the win for the red shirts.
Five High Speed Hitters scored in double digits with Davison, Erika Santos, Majoy Baron, Ceballos, and Dell Palomata scoring 19, 15, 14, 13, and 10 points respectively.
Nxled will try to enter the win column in their match against the ZUS Coffee Thuderbelles on November 19, Tuesday at the Ynares Center Antipolo at 4:00 p.m.