By ADRIAN STEWART CO

Negrense hitter Christine Joy Soyud delivered a steady all-around performance as the Akari Power Chargers pulled off another five-set escape, turning back the Chery Tiggo Crossovers, 25-11, 22-25, 29-27, 17-25, 15-7, in the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Tuesday, October 14.

Soyud came through with 17 points and eight excellent digs, providing leadership and stability on both ends of the court to help Akari notch its second consecutive victory in Pool B.

Import Annie Mitchem matched Soyud’s output with 17 points and 15 receptions, while Celine Domingo added 16 markers.

Rookie Chenie Tagaod and middle blocker Mereophe Sharma chipped in 11 and 10 points, respectively.

Libero Justine Jazareno anchored Akari’s floor defense with 27 excellent digs and six receptions, earning Player of the Game honors.

The Power Chargers carried over their momentum from a stunning five-set triumph over defending champion Creamline last October 11, once again showcasing their resilience in the clutch.

For Chery Tiggo, Princess Anne Robles finished with 20 points, while Yunieka Robles-Batista scored 17, but their efforts fell short as the Crossovers dropped to 0-2.

Meanwhile, the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles continued their strong start, sweeping the Galeries Tower Highrisers, 25-20, 25-16, 25-16.

The Thunderbelles displayed poise and consistency on both ends of the floor, controlling the match from start to finish to remain unbeaten in two outings.

Rookie Alexa Miner starred for ZUS Coffee with 10 points, built on seven attacks, two service aces and one block, earning her Player of the Game honors.

Reinforcement Anna Debeer led the way with 18 points, on 15 attacks, two service aces and a block, while Fiola Ceballos contributed seven markers for the Thunderbelles.

Jelena Cvijokic led the way for the Highrisers with 11 points, while rookie Jean Asis added nine markers as they dropped to a 0-2 record./ASC, WDJ