Capital1 caps off strong first round with win over ZUS Coffee
The Capital1 Solar Spikers capped off a remarkable first round in the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference by defeating the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles, 18-25, 25-20, 25-19, 25-18, at the Philsports Arena on Tuesday.
This victory marks a significant milestone for the franchise, achieving back-to-back wins for the first time since their debut.
Iris Tolenada was instrumental in Capital1’s success, delivering 21 excellent sets and contributing five attack points. Her outstanding playmaking set the stage for the Solar Spikers’ comeback after dropping the first set.
Marina Tushova led the offensive charge with a double-double performance, amassing 32 points, 10 excellent digs, and nine excellent receptions. Tushova’s dominance on both ends of the court was a key factor in Capital1’s victory.
Local star Des Clemente added 12 points, while the team’s promising draft picks, Jenya Torres and Leila Cruz, chipped in with seven points and 12 digs, and five points, respectively.
Capital1’s victory over ZUS Coffee followed their thrilling five-set win against the Choco Mucho Flying Titans. These consecutive wins have solidified Capital1’s position in the standings, finishing the first round with a 3-2 record. This successful run propels them into Pool D for the second round, where they will compete alongside Cignal and Akari.
Despite a strong start and promising performances, victory remained elusive for the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles. Tamaru Asaka led the team with 22 attacks, while Dolly Verzosa contributed a notable double-double with 12 points and 26 receptions. However, their efforts were not enough to halt the surging Solar Spikers.
With this win, Capital1 joins Cignal and Akari in Pool D for the second round, where they will face the bottom three teams from Pool A. Meanwhile, ZUS Coffee, along with Choco Mucho and Petro Gazz, will face a tougher challenge in Pool C against the top three teams from the opposite group.
The top three teams of each pool will have an advantage in the next round as they battle against the bottom pool, making every match crucial for advancement in the tournament.
Key Performances
As the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference progresses, Capital1 will aim to build on their momentum, while ZUS Coffee will seek their first win in the next round. The stage is set for an exciting and competitive continuation of the tournament.
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