Capital1 Solar Spikers play their first game in the PVL Reinforced Conference. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — The Capital 1 may have missed an opportunity to beat Akali in their opening game of the PVL 2024 Recruitment Conference, but coach Roger Gorayeb believes his young team showed signs of a bright future.
The new Solar Spikers squandered a set-point advantage in the second set against the Akali Chargers on Thursday at Philipspols Arena, eventually losing 25-18, 27-25, 22-25, 25-14.
“It’s frustrating because the second set was close. I was leading at the end, but it’s disappointing that I couldn’t capitalize and lost the second set. If I had won the second set, we would have been in the fifth set by now,” Ghoraev said after his first Pool B match.
Schedule: 2024 PVL Reinforcement Conference
Despite the tough loss, Gorayev remained optimistic about his players, particularly praising the defensive growth led by rookie Roman May Doromal, who recorded 13 digs and seven impressive receptions in his debut.
“But it’s ok, our team is better compared to the first conference. Our defense is strong, but we struggled offensively. I don’t really know why. The first game is over, we still have games to play,” said the Capital 1 coach.
Capital 1 Solar Spikers coach Roger Gorayev. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
Despite the loss, Doromal is happy to begin a new chapter in her volleyball career with the Solar Spikers.
“At least we’ve seen some real progress and we’ve done better than we expected,” Dromal said. “Of course, there’s still room for improvement. Right now, our focus is on what we need to improve and work on in our game.”
Read: PVL: Newcomers Akali kick off campaign with return of Capital 1
The Ateneo alum is eager to learn more from Gorayeb and her veteran teammates as the team moves forward and improves.
“The coach said we still have a lot to work on and we need to be more focused in training. We are very positive about it, especially us rookies. We are open to learning and adapting to Coach Roger’s system,” she said.
Goraev also praised Cruz, the No. 2 overall pick, who scored seven points despite having limited practice time because of an illness.
“Layla was sick last week and only trained yesterday. Maybe she caught a cold. She was feeling unwell. I even thought she might not be able to play today,” Ghoraev said. “Layla is a great asset for us. We hope everyone stays in top condition and doesn’t get sick.”
Marina Tusova led the Solar Spikers with 20 points, while freshman setter Iris Trenada had 10 sets, seven points and seven digs.
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Capital 1 will be looking to bounce back next Tuesday when they take on defending champions Petro Gaz.
