By ADRIAN STEWART CO

The Farm Fresh Foxies kicked off their 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference campaign with a strong four-set victory over the Nxled Chameleons, 22-25, 25-23, 25-19, 25-21, at the City of Dasmariñas Arena in Cavite on Thursday night, October 9.

Negros Occidental’s Talisay City native libero Alyssa Bertolano stood out as the Foxies’ defensive anchor, recording 15 excellent digs and keeping her squad steady during crucial stretches.

Transitioning to the libero role this conference, Bertolano’s consistency at the backline provided the stability that fueled the Foxies’ comeback after a first-set loss.

Belgian reinforcement Helene Rousseaux dazzled in her debut, erupting for 38 points on 31 attacks, three blocks and four aces.

Beyond her offensive brilliance, Rousseaux also contributed on defense with 15 excellent receptions and eight digs for an all-around performance.

Team captain Trisha Gayle Tubu chipped in 10 points, while Frances Molina added nine markers in her first official match with Farm Fresh after joining from the Cignal HD Spikers.

Chiara May Permentilla led Nxled with 18 points, followed by Paola Martinez with 15 as the Chameleons dropped their opening match.

Meanwhile, the Petro Gazz Angels opened their campaign in dominant fashion, sweeping the Galeries Tower Highrisers, 25-21, 25-19, 25-14, on Thursday.

Veteran setter Djanel Cheng orchestrated the offense with 14 excellent sets while also contributing four points, steering the Angels to a composed and well-balanced victory.

“Ang focus muna namin is a win, and kung ano ‘yung mangyayari sa game na ‘yun, ‘yun ang aaralin namin for the next game,” Cheng said, emphasizing their game-by-game approach as the tournament progresses./ASC, WDJ