PLDT’s High Speed Hitters opened their PVL Invitational Conference title defense with a hard-earned four-set win over Thailand’s EST Cola. The final score read 25-23, 25-15, 26-28, 25-14, Monday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Reigning MVP Savi Davison exploded for 30 points to carry the defending champions. The High Speed Hitters shook off a third-set stumble and pulled away in the fourth.

Davison, Reyes Power PLDT’s Statement Win

Davison finished with 30 points on 24 kills, five blocks, and an ace. She also added several clutch digs that kept PLDT’s rallies alive.

Mika Reyes proved the perfect partner up front. She tallied 16 points and six blocks to anchor the middle.

Their chemistry showed most in the fourth set. Reyes broke a 12-all tie, and Davison followed with back-to-back points to seal the lead.

Coach Rald Ricafort credited the team’s focus despite limited scouting on their opponents. Jovie Prado, Kianna Dy, and Majoy Baron chipped in 24 combined points off the bench.

EST Cola Pushes Champions to the Brink

EST Cola came stocked with several Thai Volleyball Nations League players. They gave PLDT a real fight from the opening set.

The Thais lost top scorer Hantima Aekpatcha to an ankle injury in the second set. Even so, they fought back to steal the third set, 28-26.

Nirarach Srikuta stepped up in her captain’s absence with 14 points. Nannaphat Moonjakham backed her up with 12 points of her own.

PLDT regained its composure fast once the fourth set began. The High Speed Hitters broke away from a 12-all tie and closed out the match in under two hours.

The win keeps PLDT unbeaten as it turns to Nxled on Tuesday afternoon. EST Cola will look to bounce back the same day against Farm Fresh at the Araneta Coliseum.