PVL: PLDT repulses Galeries to bolster QF drive in Reinforced Conference

PLDT pulled away late to complete a 25-19, 19-25, 25-16, 25-21 win against a gritty Galeries Tower in the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference on Saturday at the Candon City Arena. 

The three-peat seeking High Speed Hitters recovered from a Set 2 loss to eke out the four-set romp and improve to 5-1 in Pool D as the tournament headed to the second round of elimination round. 

Galeries, meanwhile, remained winless at 0-6. 

"Credits to Galeries, magana 'yung pinakita nila today. Naging aggressive 'yung import nila kaya nahirapan kami nu'ng second set, pero 'yun naman 'yung lesson sa amin palagi," PLDT head coach Rald Ricafort said.

"At least, nag-recover kami agad nu'ng third."

PLDT broke a 12-all deadlock in Set 4 by unleashing a pivotal 6-0 run capped by back-to-back kills from Savi Davison as they raced to an 18-12 cushion. 

Davison and Milka Reyes then conspired at the net to reject lefty spiker Dimdim Pacres while Kim Kianna Dy served up an ace to extend their lead to 20-13. 

The High Risers threatened a comeback with opposite hitter Ysa Jimenez and import Jelena Cvijovic unloading two hits in a row to cut the deficit to three at 19-22. 

But veteran middle blocker Majoy Baron proved to be clutch, clinching the match point through a powerful quick kill before her soft touch sealed the victory for the franchise. 

Import Anastasiia Bavykina led from both ends after dropping 22 points anchored on 18 attacks and four blocks while also grabbing six receptions as they inched closer to a quarterfinals spot. 

Davison led the local support with 21 points as Dy and Baron chipped in 12 and 10 markers apiece. 

—JKC, GMA Integrated News