Farm Fresh overwhelmingly defeats Akari to win for the first time

After three consecutive losses, Farm Fresh defeated Akali with a 25-23, 25-21, 25-14 sweep to register their first win in the PVL All-Filipino Conference on Saturday at the PhilSports Arena.

The Foxes were in complete control of the game, needing just one spirited comeback in the opening frame to secure a clear victory in an hour and 25 minutes against one of the league’s top contenders.

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Led by Trisha Toub, who scored 21 points, Farm Fresh showed grit and composure as they fought back from an eight-point deficit in the first set to turn the tide.

Schedule: PVL All-Philippines Conference 2024-2025

Louis Romero expertly orchestrated the offense with a great set of 19 while dismantling Akali’s defense by scoring five points, including three attacks, helping his team tie for ninth place with Capital1.

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The Foxes’ blocking game and opportunistic play, especially in the third set, took advantage of Akali’s unforced errors as Farm Fresh won by 11 points.

Louis Romero of the Farm Fresh Foxes during the PVL All-Filipino Conference game against the Akali Chargers. –PVL Photo

Toub’s mature shot selection and timely cross-court hits were critical, with notable contributions from teammates Riza Cruz, Katelyn Belay, Alyssa Beltrano, Aprile Tugship, and Micah LaRosa.

Romero credited the coaching staff for helping the team adjust and deliver a breakthrough performance despite returning from injury.

Read: Farm Fresh appeals to PVL to allow Arohi Robins Hardy to play

“This week has been a very tough week,” Romero said in Filipino. “I missed two days with an injury, but the coaching staff made a lot of adjustments and we were able to get the win. I focused on playing my game and it showed, but I still need to improve. There is still much to be done.”

Romero also emphasized the team’s thorough preparation, coached by Benson Bobock. “We studied their game carefully and learned how to neutralize key players,” she added.

Akali, on the other hand, started the season well with two wins, but are currently reeling from back-to-back losses.

Coach Taka Minowa struggled to reignite his team after the first set collapse, leaving the team vulnerable to Farm Fresh’s relentless attack.

Ivy Laxina scored 13 points for the Chargers, Eli Soyud scored eight points, Fifi Sharma added six points, and the Chargers fell to 6th place with 2 wins and 2 losses. Gressel Saltons was fit for the game, but was limited to just one point as he continues to recover from an injury.