Akari survives another five-setter after outlasting Chery Tiggo

Akari flaunted its endgame composure yet again, eking out another five-set escape with a 25-11, 22-25, 29-27, 17-25, 15-7 win in the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference on Tuesday at Smart Araneta Coliseum. 

The Chargers leaned on balance attack with Annie Mitchem and Eli Soyud pouring 17 points each with the American import also grabbing 15 receptions as Akari soared to an impressive 2-0 start in Pool B. 

The latest victory came just days after Akari also escaped defending champion Creamline in a similar five-set thriller, beating the Cool Smashers for the first time ever. 

"At least 'yung experience namin with Creamline and Chery Tiggo, nakita natin 'yung character ng team, 'yung growth ng team, and 'yung composure ng team," Akari head coach Tina Salak said. 

"Marami na 'yung nagma-mature sa team. Good thing na aside sa nananalo tayo sa five-setter, nagkakaro'n ng personal or individual growth 'yung bawat isa."

(At least, our experience with Creamline and Chery Tiggo, it showed the character of the team, the growth of the team, the composure of the team... There are a lot of players on the team that are maturing. Good thing, aside from winning the five-setter, there is personal or individual growth in each one.)

Veteran middle blocker Ced Domingo was also huge for Akari with 16 points while rookie Chenie Tagaod chimed in with 11 points as Akari gained solo lead in their pool. 

Cess Robles starred for the Crossovers with 20 points anchored on 15 attacks, four blocks, and one ace laced with 14 digs and nine receptions for an all-around outing. 

—JMB, GMA Integrated News