Galeries Tower bounced back from a tough defeat last weekend with a determined performance. The Highrisers took down the previously unbeaten Nxled Chameleons, 25-19, 17-25, 25-20, 25-21, at the FilOil Playtime Centre in San Juan on Thursday, Feb. 19. The win ended Nxled’s perfect start and highlighted the Highrisers’ focus and teamwork.

The team approached the match with discipline and urgency. Middle blocker Roselle Baliton led the charge with 16 points and seven blocks. Her presence at the net set the tone and earned her Best Player of the Game honors.

Erika Deloria delivered key points throughout the match. Gayle Pascual and Jean Asis provided steady scoring support. The Highrisers limited Nxled’s options and maintained control during critical stretches.

Baliton leads decisive fourth-set stand

The fourth set tested Galeries Tower’s composure. Nxled erased a 17-13 lead to tie at 18, but the Highrisers quickly regained focus. Baliton blocked Brooke Van Sickle twice, and Erika Raagas added two clutch hits to secure the set.

Setter Julia Coronel directed the offense with 15 precise sets. Her distribution kept attackers involved and ensured smooth rotations. Coach Clarence Esteban praised the team’s discipline and defensive adjustments.

Balanced attack seals breakthrough

Deloria matched Baliton with 16 points. Pascual and Asis contributed 13 and 12 markers, while Raagas added two crucial hits. The Highrisers also outblocked Nxled, 13-3, and narrowly outperformed them in attacks, 55-50.

Nxled still got 21 points from Van Sickle and 16 from Chiara Permentilla off the bench. Lyann De Guzman and Myla Pablo were limited by Galeries Tower’s strong defense. The Highrisers’ collective effort combined grit, poise, and timing to deliver the upset.