The Akari Chargers are still looking for their identity as they navigate through the ups and downs of their 2024-25 PVL All-Filipino campaign.
It’s been an up-and-down 2024-25 PVL All-Filipino Conference so far for the Akari Chargers as they sit with a 4-4 record.
The Chargers are fresh off their four-set victory against the Nxled Chameleons, 21-25, 25-20, 26-24, and 25-18, at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig on Thursday, January 23.
Akari’s performances have been a far cry from their silver medal finish in the 2024 Reinforced Conference, where the team went 10-0 before losing in the Finals.
Now without superstar import Oly Okaro, head coach Taka Minowa admitted that the team is still building its culture with its locals.
“We just now want to create our culture [while] building a team. It's not consistent. That's our problem. But if it's going to unite, play as a team, that's the time we can win,” Minowa said during the post-game press conference.
“Sometimes also we cannot control because of the emotion, because of immaturity, but as long as we can win, I think it's going to be well for the next coming game,” he added.
The Chargers have struggled to put up consistent performances as it continues to search for its go-to scorer in games, whether that’s Ivy Lacsina, Eli Soyud, or Faith Nisperos.
[ALSO READ: Ivy Lacsina, Eli Soyud draw strength from injured captain Michelle Cobb in Akari’s four-set win vs Nxled]
Injuries have also derailed Akari’s campaign with Gretchel Soltones sitting out the past two contests and Ced Domingo still recovering from her knee injury.
While all eyes are on Akari, Minowa remains patient in the team’s development.
“We're still in the process of making the team better,” said Minowa. “We already know what we're missing, who is going to need this spot, make an improvement. So, everyone knows. That's why we just need to look forward, have more opportunities, train in the PVL.”
With over a week before their next match, the Chargers will look to build further their chemistry as they look to hit their stride before the playoffs.
Akari will face the Capital1 Solar Spikers next on February 1 at the PhilSports Arena.