PLDT connects second straight win

PLDT barely broke a sweat in a straight sets disposal of Vietnam's Kinh Bac-Bac Ninh, 25-23, 25-14, 25-23, for back-to-back wins in the Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference semifinals Monday at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.

Royse Tubino, Fiola Ceballos and Michelle Morente powered the High Speed Hitters to a 2-2 win-loss carryover record as they kept their finals hopes alive.

Tubino scored all but one of her 12 points off kills while Morente and Ceballos chipped in 11 markers each for PLDT, which handed the Vietnamese club its second loss in as many outings.

"Happy with the outcome of the game, as we were able to execute our gameplan. Also happy for the players off the bench who stepped up," High Speed Hitters coach Rald Ricafort said.

PLDT squares off against Japanese club Kurashiki Ablaze in a must-win assignment on Thursday.

A win by the High Speed Hitters over the Ablaze will give them a chance can advance to the gold medal round if it wins against the Ablaze.

PLDT dominated the guest team for most of the match but had to stave off a late scare when Kinh Bac-Bac Ninh saved two match points to close in, 24-23.

But Rachel Austero, who came off the bench, scored the last of her four points with a game-clinching quick attack.

Rhea Dimaculangan dished out 23 excellent sets while Kath Arado filled the stats sheet with 21 digs and 16 excellent receptions as the High Speed Hitters frustrated Vietnam's attackers.

"I have no doubt on my teammates that even if the ball didn't come my way, they'll be able to make a pass to Ate Rhea to set up our play," Arado said.

Huong Nguyen had 14 points – all from attacks – while Le Xuan got 12 for the Vietnamese squad.

Kinh Bac-Bac Ninh faces defending champion Creamline on Tuesday.