Zhetsyu VC delivered a masterclass in domination, overwhelming PLDT in straight sets, 25-13, 25-22, 25-20, to become the first team to clinch a Final Four spot in the AVC Women’s Volleyball Champions League on Thursday, April 24, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.

The Kazakh powerhouse was simply too strong, dismantling the High Speed Hitters with a potent mix of power hitting, smart transition play, and airtight net defense. Zhetsyu racked up a 46-33 advantage in attacks and an overwhelming 12-3 edge in blocks, asserting complete control from start to finish and extending their undefeated run without dropping a single set in the tournament.

Nikitina shines in all-around role

“We just fight for every ball,” said Tatyana Nikitina, downplaying any suggestion of dominance as she led Zhetsyu with a game-high 19 points off 14 attacks, 4 blocks, and 1 ace, along with 6 digs and 2 receptions.

Team captain Karyna Denysova added 15 points, including 13 kills and 2 blocks, while also contributing six excellent digs. Yulila Dymar posted 11 points and eight digs, Kristina Anikonova had nine points, and Valeriya Yakutina added eight to round out the balanced effort.

“I knew PLDT would fight back, especially after the first set. But we were prepared for that,” said head coach Marko Gršić. “I’m proud of how we performed, especially on the block. We truly deserved this win.”

PLDT’s brave stand falls short

PLDT, entering the knockout round with high hopes, showed heart in the second set. From a 16-20 deficit, they surged to a 21-20 lead with key plays from Wilma Salas and Dell Palomata. However, Zhetsyu’s resilience kicked in, reclaiming control with a decisive 5-1 run anchored by Yakutina’s timely blocks and Dymar’s sharp finish.

The third set offered a brief window of hope for PLDT as they closed in at 19-20, but Zhetsyu slammed the door shut with another 5-1 finishing burst, capped by Dymar and Yakutina’s clutch hits.

High Speed Hitters unable to keep pace

Despite their efforts, PLDT struggled in key areas—net defense, service reception, and transition play. Savi Davison, the PVL All-Filipino Best Outside Spiker, led the team with 13 points and nine digs, while Salas added 11 points and six digs.

Palomata scored seven points, Kianna Dy chipped in five, and Kath Arado delivered 17 excellent digs and six receptions, following up her 28-dig effort against Nakhon Ratchasima.

Zhetsyu’s clean performance included four service aces and no service errors, exploiting PLDT’s vulnerabilities in the backcourt and ensuring the Kazakhs advanced in clinical fashion.

On to the semis

Zhetsyu VC now awaits the winner of the Nakhon Ratchasima vs. Creamline matchup for a semifinal showdown on Saturday. A finals berth and a potential spot in the FIVB World Women’s Club Championship in Thailand are on the line, and Zhetsyu looks poised to extend its commanding run in the tournament.