The Akari Chargers head to the PVL on Tour quarterfinals after sweeping the All-Filipino champions Petro Gazz Angels in the knockout round.
The Akari Chargers proved to be too much for the Petro Gazz Angels after winning in straight sets, 32–30, 25–22, 25–19, in the PVL on Tour knockout round at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City on Tuesday, August 5.
Ivy Lacsina delivered big time for the Chargers with 16 points on 12 attacks, three blocks, and one service ace.
Setter Bea Bonafe also stepped up in the absence of Kamille Cal, who sat out the match due to a knee injury.
In the third set, Akari blasted to an early 5–0 lead capped by Lacsina’s backrow attack. Petro Gazz, however, would not go down without a fight, eventually taking the lead at 14-13.
From there, Eli Soyud would come alive for the Chargers to give them a three-point cushion, which they would go on to hold until the 20-17 mark.
The Angels gave one last push in the match, but were denied by rookie Chenie Tagaod, who delivered four straight points, including three straight service aces, to put the Chargers at match point.
Grethcel Soltones would cap off the 5–0 run to seal the victory with a cross-court kill.
Akari will face the Cignal HD Spikers in the quarterfinals on Thursday, August 7, still at the PhilSports Arena.