Photo: PVL
The Nxled Chameleons could not sustain their strong start, losing to the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles in four sets, 25-19, 23-25, 22-25, 15-25, in the PVL 2024-2025 All-Filipino Conference preliminary round at the Ynares Center in Antipolo last Tuesday.
Nxled dropped to a 0-2 record, while ZUS Coffee made history by winning its first PVL game since joining the league last conference.
The Thunderbelles looked to finish end the match in the fourth set as Chinnie Arroyo hit a cut shot to give ZUS Coffee a commanding 14-4 lead.
The Chameleons trailed by as much as 13 points, but refused to let go of the game, cutting the deficit to seven points. However, the Thunderbelles spilled the Chameleons’ hopes as Gayle Pascual put on the finishing touch with a power tip.
ZUS Coffee took a 2-1 lead in the match after securing a tight second-set victory.
In the second frame, Nxled were on the verge of establishing a two sets to none lead, but first overall pick Thea Gagate and decorated veteran Jovelyn Gonzaga powered ZUS to tie the match at 1-1.
The Chameleons set the tone in the opening set, taking advantage of the Thunderbelles’ poor reception to secure the first. Unfortunately, the former began to commit costly turnovers throughout the rest of the match.
Chiara Permentilla remained as Nxled’s top scorer with 19 points in 17 attacks, one block, and one ace, while fifth overall pick Lucille Almonte added 12 points, eight excellent digs and eight excellent receptions.
On the flip side, Gonzaga led all scorers with 23 points built from 20 attacks, and three blocks. The 6’3 Gagate contributed 16 points composed of 10 attacks, five blocks and one ace, while setter Cloanne Mondonedo fanned out 17 excellent sets.
The Nxled Chameleons will gun for that elusive first win against the Chery Tiggo Crossovers on November 26, Tuesday at the PhilSports Arena at 6:30 p.m.
