Capital1's Leila Cruz. Photo from PVL Media Bureau

MANILA, Philippines – 2024 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Draft second overall pick Leila Cruz is determined to step up for Capital1 in the 2024-25 All-Filipino Conference.

Cruz nearly steered the Solar Spikers to a win over Chery Tiggo, but they ultimately fell short in the fourth and fifth sets, 25-20, 23-25, 25-22, 18-25, 11-15, on Tuesday at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.

READ: PVL: Chery Tiggo overcomes Capital1 in 5-set thriller for winning start

Nonetheless, the former De La Salle Lady Spiker still had a great night, listing 20 points on 14 attacks, five blocks, and one service ace while doing her part for the defensive side of things with 16 excellent digs.

Now that they do not have a super import to rely on in Marina Tushova, who previously reset the scoring record thrice in the 2024 Reinforced Conference, Cruz said she wants to elevate her game.

READ: PVL: Cignal survives Tushova's 50-point explosion to oust Capital1

"Siguro po may factor na rin 'yun (na wala si Marina Tushova) kasi siyempre nag-look kami sino 'yung mag-i-step up. And siguro, gusto ko rin kasi umako ng responsibility kaya I try my best talaga na mag-deliver ng points," Cruz said.

The 6-foot-1 opposite hitter believes that their time is now--and they could compete in an all-Pinoy tilt.

READ: PVL scoring queen Marina Tushova not closing doors on Capital1 return

"At least nakita rin po namin na kaya talaga namin. Kinapos lang po talaga," she said.

Bringing all the lessons from their season opener, Cruz and the Solar Spikers look forward to adjusting to their next opponent, Choco Mucho.

"Pero siguro sa lahat ng mga nagawa naming mali, doon kami matututo and mag-a-adjust din kami for our next game."