Petro Gazz gave newcomer Galeries Tower a rude welcome with a 25-11, 26-24, 25-22, win in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference Tuesday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Grethcel Soltones picked up 19 points, including the game-clinching hit that put a stop to the Highrisers' late rally, in leading the runners-up of the first serving of the AFC to an opening day victory.
"Coach told us to play simple volleyball and to not complicate things because we were really struggling in the second set," Soltones said as she laced her productive night with 14 digs and 10 excellent receptions.
The Angels' blocking was also on point, scoring 10 kill blocks as they gave new coach Timmy Sto. Tomas his debut win.
"I'm very happy that we were able to get the win despite having difficulties in the second and third sets of the game," Sto. Tomas said.
"I'm happy that at least the girls were able to bounce back. They were able to step up during the latter part of the match."
Veteran winger Aiza Maizo-Pontillas added 10 markers while KC Galdones and Jonah Sabete finished with seven each for Petro Gazz.
The Angels had a scary moment in the second set, needing to play catchup before getting a break in the extended frame after the Highrisers tied it at 24.
The Angels were able to create enough separation early in the third set to cushion the late fightback mounted by the clingy Galeries Tower.
Audrey Paran paced the Highrisers with eight points while Anne Esguerra, Roma Joy Doromal and Julia Ipac score seven each.