Reeling from a stunning loss to VNS, Alpha Insurance vented its frustration on PGJC-Navy, sweeping the Sealions 25-18, 25-21, 25-19 to revive its fading semifinals hopes in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference on Friday at the Paco Arena.
The Protectors improved their record to 3-3, setting up a do-or-die showdown against the undefeated Criss Cross King Crunchers in their final elimination round game.
The winner of the match between Cignal and Savouge — ongoing as of publishing time — will join Criss Cross in the semifinals, while the loser will be pursued by Alpha Insurance.
Simply outclassed by the young Griffins in their previous outing, Alpha Insurance head coach Mike Santos reminded his squad to play loose and let the results follow.
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“Happy naman ako kasi madaling nakarecover yung mga player mula sa pagkatalo namin sa VNS. Tinanggal lang namin yung pressure. Buti mabilis naka-recover,” said Santos.
The Protectors dominated the winless Sealions, excelling in both spiking and blocking. They tallied 46 attacks compared to 35 by PGJC-Navy, and enjoyed a 7-2 advantage in blocks.
JJ Javelona, who was limited to just two points against VNS, bounced back with 13 points on 13-of-23 attacks to keep Alpha Insurance alive in the tournament organized by Sports Vision and supported by Alpha Insurance, Premiere EMS, Buffalo’s Wings N’ Things, and Arena Plus.
Barbie San Andres remained steady with 12 points and 10 excellent receptions, while Rocky Motol contributed nine points.
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For PGJC-Navy, Joeven Dela Vega and Peter Quiel led the charge with eight points each, while Marc Paulino and Greg Dolor added seven apiece.
PGJC-Navy (0-6) will aim to close its campaign on a high note against VNS on Sunday at 1:00 PM.
Games are aired live on One Sports and One Sports+, as well as through the Pilipinas Live app, which offers video-on-demand options. Matches are also streamed via spikersturf.ph.
