Petron, F2 Logistics forge title showdown

Powerhouse Petron and formidable F2 Logistics made quick work of their respective semifinal rivals on Saturday night to forge another blockbuster bestof-three finals for the 2018 Chooks to GoPhilippine Superliga (PSL) Invitational Conference title at the Muntinlupa Sports Complex.

Veteran Aiza Maizo-Pontillas and promising Sisi Rondina led a balanced attack with nine points each while the rest of the Blaze Spikers did their fair share on the defensive end on the way to a comprehensive 25-12, 25-15, 25-17 win over the Smart-Giga Hitters.

“It was an unpredictable match-up for us. So we focused on our team, our strengths and good thing we executed it well,” said Petron head coach Shaq Delos Santos, pleased no end with the Blaze Spikers’ sustained tenacity in 70 minutes of play.

Petron booked its fifth straight trip to the finals and stayed on track for a third straight crown this season after dethroning F2 Logistics in an epic finals battle in the Grand Prix and retaining the beach volley crown.

Not to be outdone were the Cargo Movers, who put an end to former champion Cignal HD Spikers’ title-retention bid with their equally solid 25-22, 25-15, 25-19 win in the other semis pairing.

Ara Galang led all scorers with 12 points while middle blocker Majoy Baron added nine points for F2 Logistics, which sealed a fourth straight titular showdown with Petron starting on Thursday at The Arena in San Juan City.

“We were given a chance to make it back to the finals so we will make the most out of it,” said Cargo Movers tactician Ramil De Jesus, also sounding impressed with his wards’ collective showing that saw them make 11 blocks and 10 service aces.

Star spiker Rachel Anne Daquis finished with 10 points for Cignal, which will try to pick up the pieces in its Battle for Bronze showdown with Smart-Army on Thursday.