Petro Gazz secured a spot in the PVL Reinforced Conference finals after edging Akari in a dramatic five-set thriller, 25-19, 25-17, 15-25, 22-25, 15-13, on Thursday, November 27, at the Araneta Coliseum. The Angels’ victory came after an intense two-hour, 10-minute showdown that tested nerves, composure, and endurance on both sides.

The match began with Petro Gazz dominating the first two sets, but the Chargers clawed back in Sets 3 and 4, setting up a decider that became an unforgettable contest for players and fans alike. Every point in the fifth set was fought with championship intensity, featuring eleven deadlocks and multiple lead changes.

Turning points and heroics

The pivotal moment came on Grethcel Soltones’ final swing, an attack that flew over the blockers but also out of bounds, giving Petro Gazz the decisive edge. Brooke Van Sickle’s stellar performance, recording a triple-double with 23 points, 13 digs, and 18 receptions, anchored the Angels throughout the rollercoaster contest.

With import Lindsey Vander Weide sidelined due to an ankle injury, Myla Pablo stepped up, scoring 26 points to counter Akari’s resurgence. Rookie setter Jules Tolentino distributed 27 excellent sets, keeping Petro Gazz coordinated despite Akari’s persistent pressure.

Akari, last year’s Reinforced Conference runner-up, showcased remarkable resilience. Annie Mitchem tallied 28 points, Ced Domingo contributed 16, and Soltones added 12, forcing the Angels to rely on poise and precise execution in the final set.

Intense pressure and championship mindset

The fifth set exemplified pure tension and grit. Eleven deadlocks, five lead changes, and no team holding more than a two-point advantage created a match that held fans on edge throughout. Both benches rose in anticipation, spectators held their breath, and the crowd’s roar highlighted the drama of every point.

Coach Gary Van Sickle emphasized perseverance over early dominance. “It goes to show it does not matter how we start, but what matters most is how we finish. This time, we showed grit,” he said. Petro Gazz’s season-defining upset of Creamline in the knockout quarters underscored the Angels’ ability to perform under pressure, carrying that momentum into this semifinal clash.

Ultimately, Petro Gazz’s steady composure in the decider and clutch plays from Van Sickle, Pablo, and Tolentino propelled them to victory, ensuring another finals appearance in the import-laced PVL Reinforced Conference.