The Generika-Ayala Lifesavers began their campaign in the 2018 Chooks-to-Go PSL Invitational Conference with a four-set victory over the debuting UP-UA Lady Fighting Maroons, 25-23, 25-9, 23-25, 25-16, on Saturday at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.
The Lifesavers banked on their veteran smarts to fend off the collegiate team's resilient efforts.
Skipper Angeli Araneta spearheaded the attack with 26 points highlighted by 23 spikes, while Patty Orendain contributed 18 points and 20 digs.
The Lady Fighting Maroons bounced back from a lopsided loss in the second frame with a strong showing in the next period. They also made one final push in the fourth before succumbing to the more experienced Generika squad.
"We adjusted a bit on the play all rule because you really have to utilize all players. We just balanced the first two sets. In the third set, I don't know what happened. Maybe they did not jell in the third," said Lifesavers coach Sherwin Meneses.
Meneses was happy with their floor defense - anchored by Kath Arado who had 21 digs and 12 receptions - but he noted that they still have to work on their net defense and combination attacks heading into their next games.
Isa Molde, who finished with 15 points, led UP's rally in the fourth. She willed her team to inch within three points but their late errors paved the way for Generika to deliver the finishing blows capped by an Orendain kill.
Incoming rookie Nicole Magsarile also shone for the Lady Fighting Maroons as she poured in eleven markers all from attacks. Captain Ayel Estrañero tallied 23 excellent sets in the loss.