Retooled PLDT schools Galeries in straight sets for 1st PVL win

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

PLDT High-Speed Hitters took the court by storm, notching their first win of the Premier Volleyball League’s (PVL) All-Filipino Conference on February 22, 2024, with a commanding straight-set win over Galeries Tower, scoring 25-22, 25-6, 25-9, at the FilOil EcoOil Centre.

The PLDT team, fresh from incorporating key players Kim Fajardo, Majoy Baron, and Kim Kianna Dy—alumni of the storied F2 Logistics Cargo Movers—found their rhythm early in the match.

Despite a series of unforced errors that characterized their opening set, they held Galeries at bay, preventing their opponents from capitalizing on early opportunities.

A few costly mistakes from Galeries towards the end of the first set allowed PLDT to seize the momentum and close out the frame.

The High-Speed Hitters came back with a vengeance in the second set, with their coaching staff’s strategic adjustments leading to a dominating performance and restricting Galeries to a mere six points.

The second set saw PLDT quickly amassing a 12-4 lead, thanks to a scoring spree by Jules Samonte and Jessey De Leon. The team’s revitalized form persisted, turning the match into a lopsided affair as they replicated their outstanding play into the final set.

Savannah Davison led the charge for PLDT with an impressive 19-point haul comprising 16 attacks, two blocks, and a service ace.

Samonte added substantial firepower with 15 points, including 10 attacks, four service aces, and a block.

Kim Fajardo made a shining debut for PLDT, orchestrating the game with 11 excellent sets and contributing two points, continuing the steady form that was a hallmark of her previous PVL season.

The victory marks a promising start for PLDT in the league, setting the tone for what could be a season marked by strong performances and formidable team synergy.