Marina Tushova led the way for Capital1 as the Solar Spikers take only their second win in PVL franchise history.
The Capital1 Solar Spikers just pulled off their biggest win yet in the team’s young history in the PVL.
After just one win in their maiden campaign in All-Filipino Conference, the Solar Spikers made sure their first victory of the Reinforced Conference was a banger, scoring an incredible straight-sets takedown of two-time defending champions Petro Gazz Angels, 26-24, 25-20, 25-18, at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City on Tuesday, July 23.
It all started with Capital1’s thrilling first-set victory, where the team pulled out all the stops to snatch the extended frame.
With momentum on their side, the Solar Spikers continued to pounce on the listless Angels, who were without Remy Palma and MJ Phillips.
Mistakes also hounded Petro Gazz as the champs committed 23 unforced errors as compared to just 16 from Capital1.
In the third set, the Solar Spikers continued their fine form, building a five-point lead, which ended up being great cushion to withstand the efforts of reigning MVP Brooke Van Sickle as she tried to push the Angels for a comeback.
Needing just two more points to secure the victory, Capital1 turned to middle blocker Julia Ipac, who delivered a power tip, before Jorelle Singh's off-the-block hit sealed the win.
Import Marina Tushova had 24 points on 23 attacks and one service ace for Capital1, while Iris Tolenada had 15 excellent sets in the victory. Singh and Des Clemente added nine apiece.
Van Sickle led Petro Gazz with 19 points, however, no other player finished in double-digit scoring for the Angels. Import Wilma Salas only contributed seven points in the loss.
Capital1 will face the Cignal HD Spikers next at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 27, still at the PhilSports Arena.