Akari lights up versus Gerflor

MANILA, Philippines — Akari made short work of Gerflor, 25-18, 25-15, 25-19, yesterday to resuscitate its fainting semifinal hopes in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference at the Aquilino Pimentel International Convention Center in Cagayan de Oro.

Faith Nisperos and Christine Joy Soyud took charge and fired 11 points apiece as the Chargers halted a debilitating three-game skid while nailing their fourth win with as many defeats that somehow lit up their flickering hopes of catching the last bus to the next phase.

Erika Raagas also had a memorable homecoming as she chipped in five hits to the delight of family members, friends and familiar faces.

Thanks to the win, Akari caught up with Petro Gazz and F2 Logistics in a three-way logjam at sixth spot.

The Defenders remained winless in eight outings.

Nisperos said the team kept the faith despite moments of despair following their three straight defeats.

“We stepped forward and we all played together and showed trust on our coaches and system,” said Nisperos.

For Raagas, it’s a refreshing feeling playing where she has started.

“It’s nice to be back home, grabe suporta ng crowd,” she said.

In the nightcap, Creamline smashed PLDT, 25-23, 25-21, 25-19, to remain undefeated in seven games. The High Speed Hitters slipped to 5-3.