Backed by one of the most well-known celebrities in the country, the Vice Co. Blockbusters successfully debuted in the Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference, drilling the Philippine Army Troopers, 25-13, 25-16, 27-29, 25-21, at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
Vice Co., flanked mostly by UAAP Season 80 bronze medalists FEU Tamaraws, played consistently throughout the match. The Blockbusters strutted their decisive youth advantage, attacking at a 47 percent clip and limting their errors to 21 compared to Army’s 34.
“Sabi ko nga sa mga players na mas bata tayo, mas kundisyon tayo, so kailangan ipakita natin ‘yung advantage,” said head coach Rey Diaz. “So may pressure nga din sa amin kasi kilala ‘yung pangalan dahil kay Vice. Pero kaya namin i-handle.”
Peter Quiel led the Blockbusters with 14 points, which included three blocks. Pao Pablico and Berlin Paglinawan managed 13 markers apiece.
Benjaylo Labide topped the Troopers with 20 points, while returning PJ Rojas added 15 markers.
The Scores
Vice Co. (3) – Quiel 14, Pablico 13, Paglinawan 13, Bugaoan 12, Garcia 5, Paler 5, Solis 3, Ramos 2, Suarez 1, Silang 0, Marmeto (L)
Army (1) – Labide 20, Rojas 15, Villonson 8, Depamaylo J. 6, Torres 5, Ramirez 2, Barrica 0, Bayking 0, Buloaloa 0, Depamaylo N. 0, Uy (L)
