PLDT secures PVL quarterfinal spot, ousts ZUS Coffee

PLDT booked a ticket into the quarterfinals after eliminating ZUS Coffee in the 2024 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference at the PhilSports Arena Tuesday night, August 13.

The High Speed Hitters have qualified for the quarterfinals after dominating the still-winless Thunderbelles in straight sets, 25-18, 25-14, 25-12.

Russian import Elena Samoilenko led the charge for the PLDT High Speed Hitters, posting a game-high 14 points on 12 attacks and two blocks to go along with eight excellent digs and six excellent receptions, while Majoy Baron supplemented the offense with 13 markers on nine attacks, three blocks, and one ace.

For Baron, who also nabbed the Player of the Game nod, the triumph was a way of having fun and being consistent. She also revealed that missing the Final Four last conference became their motivation to win their games.

“Falling short in the last conference is extra motivation as well as a lesson learned, so this conference, we have to make sure to be stronger as a team,” Baron told the reporters postgame.

Meanwhile, Japanese reinforcement Asaka Tamaru was the lone double-digit scorer for the Thunderbelles with 13 points to go along with 14 excellent digs.

Despite being assured of a playoff spot, PLDT still has to face powerhouses Petro Gazz and Choco Mucho, while ZUS Coffee, which has yet to enter the win column, eyes to end the tournament on a sweet note versus top teams Chery Tiggo and Creamline.