By: Christian David Ruiz
PGCJ Navy returned to the winning column with a four-set victory over the D’Navigators Iloilo, winning 25-20, 25-18, 19-25, 25-19 in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference on Wednesday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.
Despite dropping the third set, the Sealions secured their second win in the tournament, supported by ArenaPlus, Mikasa, and Alpha Insurance & Surety Company.
“Actually, buti nakabawi kami sa pagkatalo nung nakaraan. Maganda naman lumabas yung tineraining namin, so ito lang nung third set lang medyo kumampante kaya nakuhanan pa kami ng set,” said Sealions’ head coach Michael Santos.
“Actually, service namin dami namin error nung third set, sa service kaya inadjust na namin nung fourth. Sabi ko, matibay naman yung blocking so kailangan mabawasan yung error sa service,” he added.
The Sealions built an early seven-point lead in the first set, but the D’Navigators managed to cut the deficit to two with a 4-0 run.
Marvin Villanueva halted the D’Navigators’ momentum with a powerful kill that deflected off the hands of Edward Camposano.
After falling behind by three points, the Sealions regained the lead with a six-point run, anchored by Joeven Dela Vega’s two consecutive blocks against Barbie San Andres.
They sealed the second set with a seven-point cushion, thanks to Jeric Carangalan’s cross-court attack.
The Sealions lost the third set, primarily due to San Andres, who led the D’Navigators’ offense with nine points in that frame alone.
In the fourth set, Peter Quiel rose to the occasion, trading points with Jayvee Sumagaysay from the middle to maintain their lead before Omar Lioc’s off-the-block hit sent the Sealions to match point.
Dela Vega was a standout for the Sealions, contributing 20 points from 10 attacks, seven blocks, and three service aces, while Louie Pudadera directed Navy’s offense with 21 excellent sets.
The Sealions will look to continue their winning streak as they face the VNS Griffins on Nov. 6, Wednesday, at the Philippine Sports Arena.
Meanwhile, the D’Navigators are on a three-game losing streak, holding a 1-3 win-loss record, despite San Andres’ impressive 15-point performance, all from her attacks.
The D’Navigators will aim to end their losing streak against the EcoOil La Salle Green Oilers on Friday, Nov. 8, at 2:00 PM at the same venue.
