F2 survives five-setter vs PLDT in season debut

F2 Logistics was off to a smashing start, surviving PLDT Home Fibr in five sets, 25-22, 25-21, 14-25, 20-25, 16-14, to open its campaign in the 2023 PVL All-Filipino Conference on Tuesday at the PhilSports Arena.

New acquisition Myla Pablo was quick to show her worth, leading the Cargo Movers in the first two sets as they raced to a commanding 2-0 set lead. But the High Speed Hitters made sure to put up a fight, stealing the next two frames to force a decider.

Middle blockers Mika Reyes and Dell Palomata steered the ship for PLDT in the third and fourth sets alongside crucial contributions from Jovie Prado, Mean Mendrez, and Mich Morente.

But it all boiled down to a winner-take-all fifth set. Back-to-back attack errors from Kim Kianna Dy and Aby Maraño tied things up at 5-all before Reyes denied Maraño on her quick attack as PLDT took an 8-7 cushion.

Ivy Lacsina and Palomata then had an exchange of quick kills of their own with the latter giving PLDT a 13-12 advantage. A combination play, though, from Dy again saw a tied contest before PLDT took the first match point at 14-13.

Mendrez then committed a crucial net error before Maraño and Dy put on the finishing touches.

Pablo, who transferred from Petro Gazz to F2 earlier this year, introduced herself with 21 points built on 18 attacks, two blocks, and one service ace alongside nine digs and eight receptions.

Dy chipped in 17 markers while Maraño chimed in with 11 as F2 went 1-0 while PLDT dropped to 0-1. Both teams are parading new coaches with F2 now being led by Regine Diego while PLDT is being handled by Rald Ricafort.

—JMB, GMA Integrated News