PVL: Lena Samoilenko's 34-point burst lifts PLDT in five-set upset of Creamline

Lena Samoilenko had a huge game as she helped PLDT overcome Creamline in a thrilling five-setter, 16-25, 25-22, 24-26, 25-29, 15-12, to kick off its 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference campaign late Tuesday at the PhilSports Arena.

The Russian reinforcement churned out 34 attacks built on 32 points and two aces as the High Speed Hitters survived their manpower shortage with Rhea Dimaculangan, Savi Davison, Dell Palomata, and Kim Kianna Dy out.

Creamline, which was also missing several key players like Jema Galanza, Tots Carlos, and Alyssa Valdez, absorbed an early loss to go 0-1.

PLDT opened the decider with a crucial 4-1 lead before the Cool Smashers staged a comeback with import Erica Staunton soaring from the backrow to cut the deficit to just one, 9-8.

Samoilenko then hit one off the block to deliver the match point before Fiola Ceballos powered through the double block of Bea De Leon and Lorie Barnardo to seal the victory.

Earlier, Chery Tiggo swept Farm Fresh, 25-13, 27-25, 25-22, despite missing two stars in Eya Laure and Jen Nierva while Nxled outlasted Galeries in a five-set thriller, 25-19, 22-25, 25-18, 25-27, 15-12 as both squads opened their campaign on a rousing note.

Import Khat Bell immediately made an impact in her Philippine homecoming, dropping 23 points, nine digs, and six receptions to power the Crossovers while Mary Rhose Dapol provided the lift with eight markers in a starter role.

Meanwhile, Meegan Hart paced the Chameleons with a team-high 19 points while May Luna led the local support with 17 markers.

—JMB, GMA Integrated News