PLDT, Army start Shakey’s title duel

Games Today (The Arena, San Juan) 12:45 p.m. – PLDT vs Army (finals) 3 p.m. – Navy vs UP (third place)

Expect another furious battle as PLDT Home Ultera and Army begin their bestof-three title series in the Shakey’s V-League Season 12 Reinforced Conference at The Arena in San Juan City.

With both teams armed to the teeth, PLDT and Army are aching to get the all-important first win when they clash at 12:45 p.m. where their supporters are expected to come in droves.

PLDT and Army first met in the finals in the Open Conference early this year, where the Ultrafast Hitters survived five grueling sets in Game 3 to clinch the crown.

But it will be a different story this time as Army tries to avenge not only that recent loss, but is also seeking redemption after its title defeat against last year’s Reinforced Conference champion Cagayan Valley.

Despite having two American reinforcements in Victoria Hurtt and Sareea Freeman, PLDT Coach Roger Gorayeb still expects a close call.

“Ever since naman, perennial qualifier na yang Army sa finals. Alam mo na nandun yung championship experience nila. Kung kami man may foreign imports, yung experience ng Army, yun ang edge nila,” said Gorayeb.

Hurtt and Freeman showed glimpses of what they are capable of by combining for 34 points in their first appearance against Kia Forte in the team’s final eliminations assignment.

As if the presence of the two Americans are not enough, PLDT management has succeeded in luring back Ateneo ace spiker Alyssa Valdez to play in the finals.

Though she’s part of the team, Valdez did not play for PLDT for the entire elims due to her school commitment.

Despite the presence of Valdez and the two American imports, Army Coach Kungfu Reyes remains unfazed.

Reyes said his veteran players are not only fully motivated but also eager to make a statement.

“Matagal na ring magkakasama itong team na ito, siguro yung leadership at kondisyon ng katawan yung magiging advantage namin dito. Ikocorrect lang naman namin yung mga galaw namin. Wala na kaming masyadong adjustments,” said Reyes.

Former Most Valuable Players Mary Jean Balse, Jovelyn Gonzaga and Tina Salak are expected to spearhead Army with Aby Maraño and Royse Tubino backing them up.

PLDT, meanwhile, will have Aiza Maizo, setter Rubie De Leon, Sue Roces, Janine Marciano and Lou-An Latigay in front of their assault.