By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
The Capital1 Solar Spikers bagged its biggest win since joining the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) after blanking the defending Reinforced Conference champion Petro Gazz Angels, 26-24, 25-20, 25-18, on July 23, 2024, at the Philsports Arena.
After only clinching a single win during the All-Filipino Conference last season, the Solar Spikers displayed its revamped system in the import-laced conference to tally its second overall win in the PVL.
With the momentum-boosting victory, the Solar Spikers just improved its PVL standing to 1-1, equalizing the win-loss records of their prey, the Angels, the Creamline Cool Smashers, and the NXLED Chameleons.
The Roger Gorayeb-mentored squad showed their willingness and hunger to enter this conference’s winning column and banked on its fortified defensive approach to hold off the blazing offense of the Angels.
It all started with their tremendous floor defense as newly-acquired libero rookie Roma Mae Doromal did wonders in keeping their possessions alive.
Aside from their floor defense, the Solar Spikers also displayed its enhanced middle blocking and better communication in picking up the coverages from the back row.
After a thrilling first-set victory, Capital1 just steamrolled their way to a sweeping 2-0 outing in the last two sets, outplaying the reigning Reinforced Conference queens in all facets of the game.
Marina Tushova, Capital1’s Russian reinforcement, led the way for the Solar Spikers after dropping 24 big points derived from 23 successful attacks.
Aside from her firepower, Tushova also lent a helping hand in the floor defense, tallying 10 excellent digs while also delivering nine excellent receptions for Capital1.
Solar Spikers team captain Jorelle Singh also stepped up for her squad as she fired nine markers while rookie lottery pick Leilah Cruz chipped in five points and 11 excellent digs.
Capital1 will look to complete its first-ever winning streak in the PVL on August 1, 2024, as they take on the Choco Mucho Flying Titans in the second scheduled game of the triple-header.
