V-League: Meralco claims tourney opener with win over PNP

The Meralco Power Spikers had enough power in their reserves to outlast the Philippine National Police Lady Patrollers and win the first game of Shakey's V-League 10th Season Open Conference, 25-17, 17-25, 21-25, 25-15, 15-9, Sunday at the FilOil Flying V Arena in San Juan.

Maureen Ouano had 19 points, Maica Morada and guest player Ivy Remulla added 15 apiece, and Steph Mercado rang in 12, all off spikes, for Meralco.  

"Our more experienced players stepped up in this match," said Meralco coach Oliver Almadro in Filipino, referring to Ouano, a former league MVP, Remulla and Maica Morada.

"We've only practiced for two weeks and it’s only just a week that we have been practicing as a complete team because most of my players are working," he added.

PNP took a 2-1 set lead, after dropping the first, 25-17, but their offense disappeared in the final two outings, producing a total of just 21 markers.

In the decider, Meralco posted a 9-5 lead before PNP closed within three. However, the Power Spikers notched four of the next five points, pulling away, 13-7, en route to the win.

Janine Marciano and Frances Molina led PNP with 22 points each, with both tallying 19 spikes as well, but it wasn't enough to come out on top. - GMA News