PVL Finals: Chery Tiggo forces rubber match as Jaja erupts anew

Jaja and Dindin Santiago teamed up yet again as Chery Tiggo stays alive in the PVL Finals. PVL Media Bureau

By Ricky Manliguis

MANILA—Chery Tiggo leaned on Jaja Santiago once again for a 25-18, 17-25, 25-16, 25-21 victory in Game 2 of the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Open Conference Thursday at the PCV Socio-Civic and Cultural Center in Bacarra, Ilocos Norte.

Eager to bounce back after the tough five-set loss in Game 1, Santiago exploded for 26 points on 20 attacks, three blocks, and two aces as the Crossovers tied the series 1-1 and extend the series into a decider on Friday.

The former National U standout broke a 16-all fourth set, then teaming up with sister Dindin Manabat and Shaya Adorador to finish off the Cool Smashers’ fightback.  

Manabat added 18 points spiked on 15 kills, while Adorador added nine along with three service aces. Joy Dacoron came off the bench with eight.

Buding Duremdes was a gem on the defensive side, producing 16 digs and 16 excellent receptions for Chery Tiggo, which also got 12 blocks and nine service aces overall.

Alyssa Valdez paced Creamline with 18 points, but their drive for a third straight title will have to wait another day. Jema Galanza and Tots Carlos had 17 and 15, respectively, while Jia Morado fired 42 excellent sets.

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