PLDT nails historic first win in men's volley
MANILA, Philippines - Behind the efforts of Richard Gomez, the PLDT myDSL Speed Boosters claimed its historic first victory over the TVM-Systema Active Smashers in the newly added men's division of the PSL Grand Prix on Sunday, November 10 at the Arena in San Juan.
Only on its maiden season with its second conference, the Philippine Super Liga, the country's first commercial volleyball league, already stretched its wings by including a men's division.
PLDT was quick to pounce on the opportunity to make history by emerging as the first men's division winner in a tightly contested match, 25-23, 25-22, and 25-22.
Despite winning in straight sets, nothing came easy for PLDT. Systema gave PLDT a hard time but ultimately beat themselves by committing service errors in crucial points of the match--including one that gave PLDT the final point of the second set with Systema only down by one, 24-23.
A service error by Systema's AJ Pareja in the deep waters of the third set also pushed PLDT to matchpoint.
Systema kept themselves within striking distance of PLDT. But every time they would try to grab hold of the lead, PLDT pushed them back and maintained control at the driver's seat.
Gomez finished with 9 points, while Pareja had 10.
Other teams in the men's division include Gilligan's Sisig Kings and Maybank Tigers. - Rappler.com
