CHERY Tiggo got the job done by securing the remaining Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference semifinals slot with a 26-24, 23-25, 19-25, 25-12, 15-9 victory over also-ran Galeries Tower last night at the Philsports Arena.

Trailing two sets to one, the Crossovers seized the fourth set to force a decider, which was needed to gain a point in the first tiebreaker and bag the last Final Four slot.

Chery Tiggo eventually dominated the fifth set to extend its winning run to seven matches and improve to 9-2 overall.

“Mapapa-thank you Lord ka na lang sa game,” said Crossovers coach Kungfu Reyes.

The outcome shut the door for PLDT to advance the semifinals by gaining a favorable result in the set ratio tiebreaker to advance.

Choco Mucho, PetroGazz and Creamline have earlier secured spots in the semis, a single-round robin affair.

Eya Laure led Chery Tiggo with 20 points, including five blocks, 18 receptions and 11 digs, Ara Galang added 13 points while setter Alina Bicar tossed in 16 excellent sets.

It was a solid prelims campaign for the Crossovers, whose current winning run was highlighted by a stunning reversal of holders Cool Smashers.

“Na-lessen errors namin sa fourth and fifth set,” said Reyes, who praised the Highrisers for giving a good fight in the two hour, 48 minute contest. “Yung Galeries Tower, nag-perform ng maganda.”

France Ronquillo led the Highrisers with 15 points, including two service aces, and 11 receptions while Andrea Marzan had five blocks for a 11-point outing while Norielle Ipac chipped in 10 points.

Galeries Tower ended its conference in a tie with Farm Fresh at 3-8.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Theodore P. Jurado