After two straight losses, the Philippine Air Force Jet Spikers regained their form and outlasted the IEM Phoenix Volley Masters, 25-17, 25-19, 22-25, 25-22, in the Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
Air Force nearly had a straight-set victory when their floor defense and reception fell apart in the third set. With collapses becoming frequent for the Jet Spikers, head coach Dante Alinsunurin conceded there was still plenty to adjust for his powerhouse squad.
“‘Yun nga, hindi pa talaga kami consistent. ‘Yung mga ganoong bagay kasi mai-improve mo talaga kapag nasa game na. Ngayon, kailangan namin mag-respond agad kapag lumalaban ‘yung kalaban,” said Alinsunurin.
Ranran Abdilla towed the Jet Spikers with 23 points and 17 excellent receptions. Fellow Tawi-Tawi-native Fauzi Ismail added 15 markers.
Air Force (2-2) looks to close the elimination round strong against Vice Co. (3-1) on Wednesday at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
Jefffey Jimenez topped the Volley Masters with 13 points while FEU standout Greg Dolor added 11 markers.
IEM finished the elims with a 2-3 card.
The Scores
Air Force (3) – Abdilla 23, Ismail 15, Tolentino 10, Malabanan 8, Fuentes 7, Jeruz 4, De Ocampo 1, Dimaculangan 0, Mangaring (L)
IEM (1) – Jimenez 13, Dolor 11, Presnede 10, Canlas 7, Macalama 6, Gatdula 5, Enciso 2, Castel 1, Cerilles 0, Timbal 0, Almario (L)
