Kendra Dahlke unleashed her power, towing PLDT Home Fibr to a thrilling 25-21, 20-25, 29-27, 13-25, 15-12 victory over Generika-Ayala in the Philippine Superliga Grand Prix yesterday at the Filoil Flying V Centre.
The hard-hitting former Arizona star provided the offensive muscles down the stretch as the Power Hitters opened the second round of this prestigious women’s club tourney that has ESPN5 and 5Plus as broadcast partners on a sizzling note.
Dahlke delivered 27 kills, two blocks and an ace to finish with a conference-best 30 points on top of 16 digs for the Power Hitters, who stepped back on winning column after finishing the first round with three wins in seven games.
PLDT head coach Roger Gorayeb couldn’t help but praise the impressive performance of his ward, especially in the heart-stopping third set where they gamely matched the firepower and defensive intensity of the Lifesavers.
After carrying the cudgels in the third where the Power Hitters clawed back from a 17-23 cushion to turn the set into 27-26, Dahlke poured six points in the deciding fifth set to essay the victory.
“Kendra was tremendous, especially in the third set. Her offense was truly a big help for us,” said Gorayeb after plucking their fourth win in this battle that also has Asics, Mueller, Mikasa, Senoh, Team Rebel Sports, Bizooku, UCPB Gen, Cocolife, Hotel Sogo and Data Project as technical sponsors.
“It’s what we need from her. Good thing she played well today. I think this is her best game so far.”
PLDT’s other import in Grace Lazard was also instrumental, delivering 18 points with 10 excellent receptions while Aiko Urdas and Shola Alvarez chipped in 11 and 10 points, respectively, for PLDT.
Setter Jasmine Nabor dished out 28 excellent sets while libero Lizlee Pantone protected the floor with 27 digs and 16 excellent receptions.
Thai import Kanjana Kuthaisong had 27 points, including 16 excellent receptions, while Fiola Ceballos and Kseniya Kocyigit added 18 and 17 points, respectively, for the Lifesavers, who absorbed their seventh loss in eight outings.
Bia General was also impressive with 43 digs and 15 excellent receptions on a losing cause.