Gorayeb tempers expectations after Solar Spikers maiden PVL win

MANILA, Philippines — Seasoned coach Roger Gorayeb refused to look too far ahead after the Capital1 Solar Spikers ticked off their first win in franchise history in the Premier Volleyball League on Tuesday.

The Solar Spikers nipped fellow PVL newcomer Strong Group Athletics in four sets, 25-18, 25-20, 19-25, 25-20, at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City to enter the win column after only three matches under their belt.

But Gorayeb, knowing how far from a finished product his Solar Spikers are, kept himself from celebrating too much for the win. Especially since the Capital1 management has tempered expectations as well.

“Prior to everything, nagmeeting naman kami [ng management], sinabi naman nila sa akin ‘Coach, ano lang, titiis tayo this first conference’. Kasi nga, biglaan lang lahat eh,” said Gorayeb after the win. 

“Ako naman ang promise ko lang sa kanila, sir hindi tayo magbobottom line, which is nanalo na kami so hindi kami magbobottom line. Yun lang naman. Kasi 'di naman ako miracle worker. Alam naman natin skills yung kailangan ng mga player. Gustuhin ko man magmilagro, parang too late the hero kasi two months pa lang eh.”

Luckily for Gorayeb, Capital1 team owners Milka and Mandy Romero aren’t asking for the stars. Rather, the two athlete-owners are practicing patience with the newly formed team. 

“Less than one month, opening na eh. Kaya mahaba naman yung pasensya nila,” said Gorayeb.

Still, the veteran coach isn’t about to settle for losses. As the time goes by, Gorayeb seeks continuous development from his team to hopefully repay the investment Capital1 has made.

“Pero syempre yung pride ko, based on my experience, nakakahiya din naman yung natatalo kami. Kasi nga sobrang supporta nila… Sobrang napakalaki ng supporta ng magkapatid na Milka and Mandy sa amin,” said Gorayeb. 

“Kaya sana masuklian namin ano, nang paglalaro nang maayos,” he added.

The Solar Spikers hope to carry the momentum of their maiden win when they face the PLDT High Speed Hitters on Saturday, March 9.