Chery Tiggo ends PLDT reign, creates three-way tie
The Chery Tiggo Crossovers stunned the undefeated PLDT High Speed Hitters in a thrilling five-set match, 25-19, 20-25, 25-20, 21-25, 15-10, in the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference on Saturday at the PhilSports Arena.
The win resulted in a three-way tie in the team standings, with the Crossovers, the High Speed Hitters, and the Creamline Cool Smashers all boasting 3-1 records in the league, intensifying the competition as the first round nears its conclusion.
Khat Bell was the standout performer for Chery Tiggo, delivering an impressive 39 points, which included 33 attacks, five blocks, and an ace. Bell’s remarkable performance not only led her team to victory but also placed her among the PVL’s all-time best scorers, surpassing the previous 38-point records held by Creamline’s Tots Carlos and Akari’s Oly Okaro.
Supporting Bell, Ara Galang contributed significantly with 23 points, reinforcing her status as the top local player for the Crossovers.
For PLDT, Russian import Elena Samoilenko spearheaded the offense with 24 points. Erika Santos added 20 points, while Fiola Ceballos contributed 16 points in a valiant effort that ultimately fell short.
Chery Tiggo will aim to close the first round on a high note when they face the Galeries Tower Highrisers on Thursday at 5 p.m. Meanwhile, PLDT will look to rebound earlier that day at 1 p.m. against the Farm Fresh Foxies.
The competitive nature of this season’s PVL Reinforced Conference continues to thrill fans, with every match proving crucial in the race to secure top positions heading into the next round.