PSL FINALS Strong start key to Petron’s bid for series sweep

Game Today

(Mall of Asia Arena)

7 p.m. – F2 Logistics vs Petron

The crown is within reach – and embattled F2 Logistics better do something about it.

Petron seeks to retain the 2018 Philippine Superliga (PSL) All-Filipino Conference title today when it battles F2 Logistics in Game 2 of the best-of-three finals at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Match is at 7 p.m. with the Blaze Spikers also gunning for a 14-0 title sweep and a fifth crown in the history of the five-year-old league.

Petron coach Shaq delos Santos wants a strong start after struggling in the opening set of their 25-23, 2511, 25-17 Game 1 victory.

Despite the opening momentum, Delos Santos said they have to work harder, knowing how dangerous F2 Logistics is when given an opportunity to dictate the tempo.

“We know they’ll go all out. We know (F2 Logistics) coach Ramil [De Jesus] especially in this kind of situations, so we have to play better this time,” said Delos Santos in Filipino.

Expect then the Blaze Spikers tandem of Sis Rondina and Bernadeth Pons to sizzle behind the net with their powerful attacks from all angles while Mika Reyes anchors their defense.

It’s not a new situation in the finals as far as F2 Logistics is concerned. Having met Petron in the finals four times already, the Cargo Movers are gearing up for a fightback to extend the series and force a rubber match.

De Jesus hopes for more offensive fire from his spikers after none finished in double figures in Game 1. Slowing down Petron’s offense is also a priority, with Aby Maraño and Majoy Baron slated to guard the net.

Game 3, if necessary, will be on Thursday at The Arena in San Juan City.