Photo: PVL
Nxled absorbed another tough defeat in the PVL Reinforced Conference after bowing to sister team Akari, 13-25, 17-25, 22-25, on Thursday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Chameleons struggled to keep pace early as Akari quickly took control with sharper execution and stronger offensive rhythm. Nxled found it difficult to settle into its system in the first two sets, often getting pushed out of position by the Chargers’ pressure from the service line and quick ball distribution.
Offensively, the Chameleons could not generate consistent threats. Import Paola Martinez and Chiara Permentilla finished with 10 points each, but the supporting cast was limited, making it harder for Nxled to keep up with Akari’s balanced attack. The Chargers outgunned them 48-26 in kills and took advantage of 21 errors that broke several potential scoring runs.
Despite the rough start, Nxled delivered its best stretch in the third set. Permentilla anchored a spirited rally, attacking with more confidence while the team’s floor defense began to stabilize. A service ace that cut the gap to 18-20 briefly gave the Chameleons a spark, and their bench came alive as they pushed to extend the match.
But the surge halted just as quickly, with a service error stopping their momentum. Akari responded with composure and sealed the sweep by matching Nxled point for point in the closing moments.
Even in defeat, Nxled showed flashes of what it can do when its energy and timing align. The fight they displayed in the third set highlighted the team’s grit, something they will aim to carry into the remaining games.
Nxled now prepares for its last match against league-leading ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles on November 18 at 1:30 pm at the Ynares Center in Montalban, where the Chameleons aim to close their campaign on a competitive and spirited note.
