CHERY TIGGO earned its first win at the expense of winless Petro Gazz, 25-22, 25-14, 25-21, in the 2022 Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference on Thursday at the Sta. Rosa Sports Complex in Laguna.
First-time starter Alina Bicar changed the complexion of the game as she dished out 13 excellent sets on top of five points and 11 digs to earn Best Player of the Game honors in Chery Tiggo's first win in four games.
After a slow start, the Crossovers picked up the pace and never looked back, pouncing the hapless Angels from all angles in three sets and all but leaving the 2022 Open Conference finalists out of playoff contention on a 0-4 record.
With most of his players finally cleared to return except for Dindin Santiago Manabat who remains sidelined due to an injury, Chery Tiggo head coach Clarence Esteban is hopeful of a resurgence for his team.
"Syempre masaya kami, buhay pa kami. Very grateful kami sa nangyari ngayon kasi unang-una, nakumpleto 'yung team namin. Nagawa namin 'yung strategy na gusto naming gawin, " Esteban said.
Shaya Adorador led all scorers with 15 points off 13 attacks, EJ Laure delivered on both ends with 13 kills and 10 receptions, while Mylene Paat and Cza Carandang chipped in 12 and 11 markers, respectively.
Libero Buding Duremdes, who sat out Chery Tiggo's first three games after being plced in the league's health and safety protocols, made her presence felt on her return with 20 digs on 36 attempts.
Chery Tiggo outclassed Petro Gazz in all departments, tallying 53 kills against the Angels' 38 - with 23 of those scored in the last set - and five blocks and aces against the Angel's three.
Aiza Maizo-Pontillas was the lone bright spot for the skidding Angels, finishing with 12 points and eight receptions.
