Thunderbelles turn back Crossovers

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ZUS Coffee zoomed past Chery Tiggo 25-22, 25-22, 23-25, 25-20 last night to pick up its second straight victory in the PVL All-Filipino Conference at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.

The Thunderbelles improved to 4-4 with veterans Jovelyn Gonzaga and Chai Troncoso coming up big, the former with 20 points and 15 digs and the latter with 18 markers, 16 off attacks, two service aces, and 16 excellent receptions.

Middle blocker Thea Gagate also had 13 points, Chinnie Arroyo fired 12, Michelle Gamit added 10 and skipper Cloanne Mondonedo dished out 17 excellent sets along with three points for ZUS Coffee.

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“We are never satisfied. Always working to move forward,” Thunderbelles coach Jerry Yee said. “Siyempre happy pero iyon nga, hindi naman doon sa isang win natatapos iyong work namin.”

Added Mondonedo: “So, iyon move forward lang and then iyon trabaho lang.”

Wing spiker Ara Galang paced the Crossovers, who slipped to 5-4, with 20 points while Shaya Adorador and Ces Robles contributed 13 and 11 markers, respectively.

Even with a complete roster, it’s uncertain whether Chery Tiggo could have halted ZUS Coffee’s momentum. The Thunderbelles, a dynamic mix of experienced veterans and emerging talents, have been peaking at the right time.

Gonzaga and Chai Troncoso not only led the offense but also fortified the team’s defensive stance with the former posting 15 excellent digs, outperforming designated libero Julia Angeles. Troncoso, on the other hand, contributed 16 excellent receptions.

Chery Tiggo, on the other hand, drew 20 points from Ara Galang while Shaya Adorador (13) and Cess Robles (11) chipped in solid efforts. However, the Thunderbelles’ efficiency proved too much to overcome.

ZUS Coffee outgunned Chery Tiggo in key departments, leading in attacks (69-56) and service aces (8-1). Although the Crossovers held a slight edge in blocks (9-7), their erratic service reception played into the Thunderbelles’ hands.

With each passing game, the Thunderbelles are proving they’re more than just an up-and-coming squad – they’re a legitimate force. And with their growing confidence, they might just be the dark horse to watch in the league’s title race.

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