GALERIES SURVIVE ZUS IN 5-SET THRILLER TO END 17-GAME LOSING STREAK IN PVL BY NICOLE ANNE DG BUGAUISAN

MANILA, Philippines — Often demolished, the Galeries Tower Highrisers ended their 17-game dry spell after a hard-fought five-set win over the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles, 25-20, 25-22, 23-25, 22-25, 15-10, to pick up their first win in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference on Saturday at the Ynares Center in Montalban.

Despite ZUS's attempt to steal the set in the first two frames, Galeries relied on Aiza Maizo-Pontillas to gain a 2-0 advantage.

However, the Thunderbelles fought back in the third and fourth frames with Chinnie Arroyo and Jov Gonzaga breathing life into the team, extending the match.

ZUS, known to thrive in a five-setter match, was outplayed by Galeries after a 13-8 advantage, with Maizo-Pontillas showing her leadership.

Class of 2024 No. 1 overall draft pick Thea Gagate smashed a quick one, but Erika Raagas responded with a down-the-line hit.

However, Raagas committed a service error for a free point for ZUS, but Jean Asis found the line to gift Galeries its first win in 364 days, 15-10.

“Of course, with the guidance of our veteran Aiza, we were able to remain composed throughout all the sets, and we’re grateful that we won today,” said Player of the game Julia Coronel, who made 16 excellent sets and eight points.

The Highrisers were led by Gayle Pascual and Jin Deloria’s 18-point output, while Maizo-Pontillas and Jean Asis both chipped in 10 points.

ZUS was led by Chinnie Arroyo, who scored 20 points, and Riza Nogales, who contributed 17 points.

Cloanne Mondonedo made 23 excellent sets for the Thunderbelles.

2026-02-07T13:59:45Z