Chery Tiggo overcomes Capital1, gives Norman Miguel first win
Chery Tiggo began their campaign under head coach Norman Miguel on a high note after surviving Capital1 in a thrilling five-set victory, 20-25, 25-23, 22-25, 25-18, 15-11, in the 2024-25 All-Filipino Conference at the Philsports Arena in Pasig on Tuesday evening, November 12.
Ara Galang powered the Crossovers with 23 points built from 18 attacks, four blocks, and an ace to bag the opening game win.
"We are always reminded to just enjoy it. It's good because we really just help each other," Galang told the media during the postgame press conference.
With back-to-back points, Capital1 tied the decisive set at 9-all, bringing the match to a dramatic conclusion.
An error committed by Heather Guino-o steered Chery Tiggo’s Galang, Aby Maraño, and Mary Rhose Dapol to launch a powerful offensive and took a 13–9 lead.
Leila Cruz, the second overall pick in the inaugural draft, managed to bring the Solar Spikers ahead with 11-13 advantage before the Crossovers prevailed thanks to Dapol’s cross court attack and Galang’s ace.
The Crossovers also gave UAAP champion tactician Normal Miguel a victorious debut in the Premier Volleyball League.
"When in training, we always remind them to develop character and maturity, so when we reached the fifth set, that's it, we said it's not about skills anymore, we're going to fight with the character that you bring out here, and it was delivered," said Miguel, who secured his first professional victory.
Cess Robles finished with 12 markers and 27 excellent digs, while Shaya Adorador scored 11.
Cruz unleashed a career-best 20 points on 14 attacks, five blocks, and one ace, while also listing 16 excellent digs for the gritty Solar Spikers.
Chery Tiggo and Capital1 will have an eight-day break before returning to action on November 21 at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
The Crossovers will kick off the matchday at 4:00 pm against Cignal HD Spikers and then the Solar Spikers will take on the Choco Mucho Flying Titans at 6:30 pm.