The PLDT High Speed Hitters kicked off their 2025 PVL On Tour campaign with a hard-fought straight-sets victory over a revamped Farm Fresh Foxies squad (25-18, 25-21, 28-26) on Tuesday, July 1st, at the FilOil EcoOil Arena.
While the first two sets showcased PLDT’s dominant play, it was their remarkable comeback in the decisive third set that truly highlighted their resilience and clutch performance.
What initially appeared to be a relatively smooth sailing debut for the High Speed Hitters turned into a stern test of their endgame composure. The new-look Foxies, under the tutelage of Italian head coach Alessandro Lodi, displayed flashes of brilliance and pushed PLDT to their limits, particularly in the third frame.
Farm Fresh, fueled by the efforts of Trisha Tubu and Rizza Cruz, built a significant 23-19 lead late in the third set, threatening to extend the match to a fourth. However, PLDT, a team brimming with seasoned veterans and emerging talents, refused to yield. Following a crucial tactical timeout, the High Speed Hitters unleashed a furious 8-2 scoring run to snatch the victory.
The rally was ignited by a brilliant reverse 1-2 play from setter Kim Fajardo, catching Farm Fresh off-guard. Kiesha Bedonia then delivered back-to-back aces, capitalizing on a miscommunication from the Foxies.
While Farm Fresh briefly regained a set point at 26-25, PLDT responded with veteran composure. Mika Reyes tied the game with a powerful running cross-court attack, and the High Speed Hitters ultimately sealed the match on a combination of a Lorene Toring attack error and a decisive block by Reyes and Kim Kianna Dy on Caitlyn Viray.
Kiesha Bedonia, who earned her first Best Player of the Game honors, was instrumental in the comeback, finishing with a game-high 14 points anchored on 10 attacks, two blocks, and two aces. She also contributed significantly on reception with seven excellent digs. Mika Reyes added 10 points, including three crucial blocks, while Jovy Prado chipped in nine markers and 10 digs.
“It was nerve-wracking to be put in during the stretch because it was a close match,” Bedonia admitted after the game. “But I just pushed aside the pressure and did what my coaches instructed, focusing on our targets.”
The High Speed Hitters demonstrated superior cohesion and balance throughout the match, outhitting Farm Fresh 38-36 and holding an 8-6 advantage in blocks. They also capitalized on the Foxies’ unforced errors, converting 29 points off turnovers.
For Farm Fresh, Trisha Tubu led the charge with 14 points, while Rizza Cruz added 10. Despite the loss, the Foxies showed promise under Coach Lodi’s new system, indicating they will be a team to watch as they continue to gel.
PLDT’s victory, achieved despite the absence of key players like Savi Davison (who is still in Canada) and national team members Alleiah Malaluan and Dell Palomata (currently with Alas Pilipinas at the VTV Cup), speaks volumes about their depth and collective strength.
This strong start in the PVL On Tour provides a crucial momentum boost as they navigate the preseason showcase and prepare for upcoming conferences.
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