Brooke Van Sickle and the Petro Gazz Angels were well-rested in their match against the Akari Chargers in the 2024-25 PVL All-Filipino Conference.
Coming off a 12-day break, the Petro Gazz Angels crafted the right gameplan to take down the Akari Chargers in straight sets, 28-26, 29-27, 25-18, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao on Thursday, December 5.
The Angels, coming off their sweep against the Farm Fresh Foxies on November 23 in Candon, Ilocos Sur, had all the energy it needed to deal the Chargers its third-straight loss in the conference.
A refueled Brooke Van Sickle led the way for Petro Gazz with 19 points and 13 excellent digs.
“Coming off our rest, we haven’t played in a while, so to be able to come out and stay focused in those tight matches was awesome,” Van Sickle said during the post-game press conference.
“I thought everyone came out with really good energy. Everyone’s smiling, it was good vibes,” she added.
Given the extended conference, Van Sickle and the rest of the veteran-laden Angels are using every break to their advantage.
“I think it’s good that we’re allowed some time to recover our bodies before we give it all 100% on the court,” said Van Sickle.
“I would just say that the team is doing a fantastic job coming into practice, staying focused even though it does take a week before you play again. We’re recovering our bodies really well and keeping our mental focus good,” she explained.
Myla Pablo had a solid outing as well for Petro Gazz with 15 points on 13 attacks, one block, and one service ace.
The Angels will have a shorter break this time around as they go up against the PLDT High Speed Hitters on December 10 at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.
Ivy Lacsina paced Akari with 21 points, while Grethcel Soltones and Eli Soyud added 11 and 10 markers, respectively.
The Chargers will look to end their three-game losing skid against the Chery Tiggo Crossovers also on December 10.