Angels earn No. 1 seeding in semis

MANILA, Philippines — Petro Gazz knows it would need all the talent it could get for it to have a realistic chance at a breakthrough Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference championship.

Enter MJ Philips.

Back after a sortie in the Korean league, Philips made a smashing return and helped the Angels swoop down on the Nxled Chameleons, 22-25, 25-23, 25-23, 25-22, yesterday to clinch the top seeding in the semifinals at the PhilSports Arena.

While still grasping at straws and adapting to Petro Gazz’ Japanese coach Koji Tsuzurabara’s complex system, Philips did just enough with 11 points to lift Petro Gazz to a 9-2 record and atop the standings after the elimination round.

Brooke Van Sickle was at her element again and uncorked a team-high 26 points while Jonah Sabete and Aiza Pontillas scattered 12 and 11 hits, respectively.

Ivy Perez also came off the bench and chipped in 11 excellent sets and six hits.

But it was Philips who gained the most notice as her return marked Petro Gazz’ determination in going for their third championship in the league and first non-Reinforced Conference title.

“I felt good to be back honestly. It’s been an adjustment in the new system, new players,” said Philips. “It’s very important to me because I want to see it as a trial run on how I would fit in with the team.”