By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
The NXLED Chameleons just bagged a much-needed sweeping win in the ongoing Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference over Capital1, 25-13, 25-23, 25-22, on April 23, 2024, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.
NXLED’s character was once again tested after finding themselves in deep trouble when Capital1 held to a commanding 11-2 lead in the third and final set.
Despite holding an early 2-0 advantage before the third frame kicked off, NXLED suddenly became complacent and was stagnant with their offensive sets, allowing Capital1 to punch them in the mouth early to take the huge lead.
When NXLED needed a spark to help them regroup, the duo of Jho Maraguinot and Camille Victoria answered the call for the Chameleons and led a comeback for the ages after turning things around with their consistent scoring.
After Maraguinot and Victoria’s offensive surge, Lia Pelaga and Jai Atienza joined the party to shock Capital1 and retake the lead in the most crucial stretch of the third.
Capital1 tried to revert to their quick 1-2 plays involving their middle blockers but another mini offensive run by the Chameleons officially shut their door.
Ivy Lacsina did damage for NXLED in the first two sets and top-scored her squad with 12 points built from 11 successful attacks.
Meanwhile, Maraguinot, one of the spark plugs of NXLED during their third-set comeback, added eight markers derived from six successful attacks and seven excellent digs.
Despite failing to punch an outright semifinal berth, the Chameleons will target a strong finish on April 27, 2024, as they face the Petro Gazz Angels in their last scheduled game of the regular season.
