By ADRIAN STEWART CO

The Akari Power Chargers cruised to a hard-earned 25-23, 25-18, 25-23 straight-sets win over the Capital1 Solar Energy Solar Spikers in the PVL on Tour at the Playtime FilOil Centre in San Juan City on Tuesday night, July 15.

Negrense Christine Joy Soyud, the league’s reigning Most Improved Player, led all scorers with 12 points.

Ezra Madrigal added 11 markers, built on eight attacks and three kill blocks, for the Power Chargers (2-3).

Grethcel Soltones chipped in nine points along with 15 excellent digs.

Ivy Lacsina contributed eight points and 11 receptions, while playmaker Kamille Cal directed the offense with 22 excellent sets and added five points for Akari.

The Chargers overcame a gritty stand from the Solar Spikers in the opening set and fended off a furious third-set comeback to complete the sweep in one hour and 29 minutes.

Despite missing the Top 2 and an automatic ticket to the next round, the Chargers will carry momentum into the knockout phase, where teams ranked third to sixth battle for survival.

“It’s all part of the learning process,” Akari head coach Tina Salak said.

“There are moments when they just need to be reminded. We’re all skilled, but sometimes the mentality and attitude change when we’re trailing by about six points,” she said.

“Thankfully, they respond well to the system and the encouragement not just from me, but from the rest of the coaching staff as well,” Salak added.

Sydney Niegos and Rachel Austero ended with 10 markers apiece, while Rovie Instrella added 10 points for the Solar Spikers, who ended the pool without a win in five games./ASC, WDJ