PVL: Capital1 locals stepping as much as backstop Marina Tushova

Capital1 Solar Spikers within the PVL Reinforced Conference.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Capital1 could also be banking heavily on Marina Tushova’s offensive prowess but behind the Solar Spikers’ rise was the solid support from the locals within the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference.

Tushova led the franchise to its best start with a record-setting 45 points to drag off a dramatic 13-25, 25-21, 18-25, 25-20, 15-13 win over Choco Mucho on Thursday at Philsports Arena.

The Russian spiker surpassed the scoring record in a single game set by former Akari import Prisilla Rivera’s 44 and nailed essentially the most attacks in a match with 43 — capped by her dramatic game-winning back row. But coach Roger Gorayeb said that she did it due to “small contributions that helped so much.”

READ: PVL: Maria Tushova powers Capital1 past Choco Mucho with 45 points

Gorayeb lauded the playmaking and leadership of setter Iris Tolenada and the regular floor defense of rookie libero Roma Mae Doromal.

“I left every little thing to Iris. Within the dugout, I told them,  you follow Iris. Iris is my extension contained in the court. I cannot consult with you or whisper to you, but Iris is there so that you can consult with her. And I just let her play her game,” said Gorayeb of Tolenada, who had 17 excellent sets on top of 5 points.

The veteran coach also praised Doromal, who has been instrumental for the Solar Spikers with 16 excellent receptions and 12 digs during Tushova’s historic night.

“Roma is absolutely stable although, she still has some lapses like her crucial error within the fifth set. She’s an important defensive specialist but committed an easy. So we were laughing together with her once I told her,” said Gorayeb in Filipino. 

READ: PVL: Maria Tushova pushes past struggles in record-setting game

Gorayeb believes the previous Ateneo captain’s availability within the second round of the Rookie Draft last month was a blessing to the team.

“Roma is an important addition to the team. Very stable on defense and superb on reception. Good thing we were capable of pick her. I don’t understand why [other teams] didn’t, perhaps I’ve been unlocking her potential. She’s calm and relaxed,” he added.

Capital1 improved to a 2-2 record in Pool B with a probability to clinch the highest three when it battles the winless ZUS Coffee on Tuesday.

The highest three Pool B teams battle the underside squads in Pool A within the second round.