PASIG CITY — In a dramatic showdown at the PhilSports Arena on Tuesday, Farm Fresh outlasted Galeries Tower in a tense five-set battle, 25-22, 35-37, 23-25, 25-20, 15-10, during the Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference.
According to Philippines News Agency, Colombian outside hitter Yeny Murillo led Farm Fresh with a stellar performance, scoring 29 points. Murillo was particularly crucial in the decisive fifth set, scoring five consecutive points during a 6-0 run that propelled her team to an 11-6 lead. Despite a late rally from Galeries Tower, spearheaded by Roselle Baliton and Andrea Marzan, Farm Fresh held on to secure the victory after a grueling two hours and 42 minutes.
Farm Fresh's Japanese coach, Shuta Sato, expressed his satisfaction with the win through an interpreter. "I'm very happy," he said, reflecting the team's relief after a challenging start to the tournament. Murillo not only dominated in scoring but also contributed significantly on defense with 16 excellent receptions and 10 excellent digs, emphasizing her all-around capabilities.
Contributions also came from Caitlyn Viray and Trisha Gayle Tubu, who added 18 points each, and Aprylle Tagsip, who posted 15 points, including four from blocks. This collective effort helped Farm Fresh improve their record to 1-2 in Pool A. Additionally, team captain Louie Romero provided 27 excellent sets, while libero Janel Delerio added 25 excellent digs and 12 receptions to their team's defensive efforts.
On the side of Galeries Tower, Thai import Chuewulim Sutadta stood out with 19 points, 19 receptions, and 10 digs, but it was not enough to avoid their third consecutive loss. Grace Bombita and France Ronquillo each contributed 17 points, and Baliton added 14 points, including three blocks, in a valiant but ultimately unsuccessful effort to stave off defeat.