Brilliant Bella saves Solar Spikers in another five-setter
Despite playing a big role in Capital1’s second straight win, Vanie Gandler was quick to deflect all credit to “ever-reliable” teammate Bella Belen after the Solar Spikers survived another five-set thriller in the PVL All-Filipino Conference Siklab Series.
“I’m very grateful, of course, that Bella’s able to hold our ground while I’m still trying to find my rhythm,” Gandler said after playing as chief back-up to Belen in their 20-25, 25-17, 22-25, 25-20, 15-8 victory over ZUS Coffee on Tuesday at Mall of Asia Arena.
Coming off a 35-point career-high night last week, Belen finished with 29 points off 25 kills and four blocks and defended the floor with 16 digs and 15 excellent receptions to help the Solar Spikers improve to a 2-1 record after their third consecutive five-set game.
“I’m still trying to find my role here on the team, but Bella’s ever reliable, so we’re very grateful to have her,” Gandler, the reigning conference MVP who accounted for 12 points, added after joining hands with Belen in dealing the telling blows on the Thunderbelles.
“The opportunity to win is still open [in the fifth set], so we really wanted to grab it because we really went through so much just to make it to the fifth set,” said Gandler.
Erika Santos also scored 12, including the game-winning attack. Setter Julia Coronel finished the game for Capital1 and scored two of her three points in the fifth set. She also had 13 excellent sets.
Cherry Nunag and Shaya Adorador added eight and seven points each, while libero Detdet Pepito had 23 digs.
“It’s okay so far. I think I’ve seen so much progress with our connection throughout the games,” Gandler said when asked about the progress of the team. “We’re all being patient with our connection because we know that it’s really a process and we can’t force it.”
As Capital1 eyes a third straight win against PLDT on Saturday at FilOil EcoOil Centre, Gandler embraces the learnings from their previous pressure-packed games.
“It’s good that our team is being exposed to these high-pressure moments this early,” Gandler said. “Especially this early in our journey together as this core. Of course, what’s important is that we win”
ZUS Coffee remained winless in two games, with Zam Nolasco leading the way with 15 points off 10 attacks and five blocks. Jolina Dela Cruz had 14 points and 15 receptions, while AC Miner and Jovelyn Gonzaga took turns as opposite spikers with 11 points each.
The Thunderbelles won’t have it any easier as their next match will be against the Creamline Cool Smashers.
