WITH MJ Perez showing the way, Cignal trounced gritty ZUS Coffee 25-18, 29-27, 21-25, 25-22 yesterday for the solo lead in Pool B of the PVL Reinforced Conference at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.
Perez sizzled with 30 points but the Venezuelan import, who fired 22 markers against Choco Mucho last Thursday, emphasized the need for the team to play more consistently, especially considering their uneven performance against the Thunderbelles compared to their dominating victory over the Flying Titans, whom they defeated in three sets.
“We made some changes, and we were able to turn the game to our side,” said Perez, who unloaded 26 kills and delivered three aces. “We have to keep working, especially on our consistency, we have to be consistent all throughout. That’s what was missing in our game today (yesterday).”
“Thirty points, unbelievable. That’s exactly why we brought her in. We know what she’s capable of, and even though I’m sure she isn’t satisfied with her performance, she still managed to score thirty points,” said Cignal coach Shaq delos Santos.
Reflecting on the Thunderbelles’ impressive showing, delos Santos added: “We’re extremely grateful to have won the game. We know that wasn’t our best performance as a team, but the good thing is we survived. Our opponents were incredible, particularly their defense. It was tough to get the ball past them.”
Japanese spiker Asaka Tamaru paced ZUS Coffee with 23 points, 15 excellent receptions and 10 digs while opposite hitter Gayle Pascual and middle blocker Michelle Gamit chipped in 14 and 13 markers, respectively.
