PVL: Kath Arado praises PLDT's reliable veterans in Nxled sweep

PLDT brewed a good blend of experience and youthful energy when it picked up its second straight victory in the 2024 PVL All-Filipino Conference on Tuesday. 

The High Speed Hitters banked on a string of steady performances from their veterans while injecting vigor from their young talents to tame the Nxled Chameleons with a straight-set 25-17, 25-23, 25-22 whipping. 

Following the victory, team captain Kath Arado could not help but laud the team's veterans.

"Siguro, masaya kasi reliable din talaga 'yung mga pumasok sa amin at tsaka experience-wise, talagang dinagdagan 'yung fighting spirit na dinala ng mga bago," the seasoned libero gushed. 

"So very happy kami kasi talagang matured na din naman sila maglaro."

For one, Arado served as a stabilizing force for PLDT as she provided floor coverage with 29 digs out of her 41 attempts and 12 excellent receptions.

Kim Fajardo also made her commanding presence felt, dishing out 19 excellent sets to steer the offensive thrust of the High Speed Hitters.

The troika of Savi Davison, Jessey De Leon and Majoy Baron showed the way as well, producing 13, 11, and 10 points, respectively, 

The Filipina-Canadian also backstopped Arado with 10 digs and 10 excellent receptions.

The battle-tested High Speed Hitters provided safety net for young guns Kiesha Bedonia and Shiela Kiseo to play without immense pressure of making mistakes on the court.

Through their collective efforts, PLDT secured its second straight win in as many matches.

"Sobrang happy po kasi syempre di naman talaga basta basta 'yung team na NXLED. Pinaghirapan din nila tska pinagaralan kasi talaga namin sila so nagpay off lang yung tinuturo ng mga coaches namin," Arado said.

Davison also expressed her satisfaction with the team's progress and performance so far.

"I think it’s the confidence that kind of sizes up [what] the girls bring and it’s fun to play with. And you can tell based on the first two games, everyone’s elevating their game, everyone’s progressing, working harder, you know, trying new things," Davison said.

"And I think that just tells the whole tale towards what the rest of the season’s gonna be like. So I’m excited to see what they bring and you know, I’m excited to see how we show up."

The High Speed Hitters aim to sustain their fine start and stretch their winning run to three when they face Petro Gazz on March 2, Saturday, at the PhilSports Arena.