Valdez-less PLDT storms Coast Guard in V-League debut

MANILA, Philippines - Alyssa Valdez-less PLDT Home Ultera overpowered Philippine Coast Guard, 25-10, 25-11, 25-20, yesterday to set in motion its title bid in the Shakey’s V-League Season 12-Reinforced Conference at The Arena in San Juan City.

Newly acquired Janine Marciano led the way with 13 hits while Laurence Ann Latigay fired 12 as the Ultrafast Lady Spikers, who beat the Army Lady Troopers last May to clinch the Collegiate Conference championship, nailed down their first win.

Reigning Reinforced Conference MVP Aiza Maizo-Pontillas, who was plucked from defending champion Cagayan Valley along with Marciano, had a quiet debut for PLDT with seven hits.

“We’re still a little bit out of rhythm because we haven’t really been complete as a team,” said PLDT Home Ultera coach Roger Gorayeb.

PLDT played with just 10 of the 14 players allowed and is still missing its top two players Valdez, who has yet to suit up because she is still playing in the ongoing UAAP beach volleyball competition, and reigning NCAA MVP Gretchel Soltones, who sat out due to studies.

“Of course, they will play,” said Gorayeb of Valdez and Soltones.

Skipper Suzanne Roces, Charo Soriano and Rysabelle Devanadera helped in plugging the holes left by Valdez and Soltones as the three combined for 17 points while doing most of the defensive chores.

Rossan Fajardo paced the Lady Dolphins with 10.

Army likewise grabbed a piece of the lead after it steamrolled rookie team KIA Forte, 25-15, 25-18, 25-11.

Jovelyn Gonzaga paced the Lady Troopers with 12 hits while Nene Bautista scattered 10 as they joined the Ultrafast Lady Spikers and the State U Lady Maroons on top.