Go for Gold-Air Force middle blocker Lloyd Josafat stepped up big time in the Aguilas’ semifinals match against Global Remit on Friday.
The multiple-time Spikers’ Turf champions fumbled a three-point advantage late in the opening set, resulting in a 0-1 deficit. Then Go for Gold-Air Force Dante Alinsunurin called Josafat’s number to shake things up inside the Taraflex.
And the 22-year-old definitely did not disappoint. He poured 15 in just three sets built on eight attacks, four blocks, and three aces. He also led the Aguilas to a 26-28, 25-22, 25-18, 25-19 win over Global Remit.
“Sa laro na ‘to, siya talaga ‘yung nagbigay ng energy namin sa loob ng court,” said Alinsunurin.
“Lahat naman sinabi ko, umpisa pa lang na tulong-tulong kami, hindi naman porket first six kami… Importante sa sitwasyon na ‘to kailangang ready.”
For his part, Josafat made sure to focus on the things that he can control. And that is to work on his game even more during practices so that he’ll be more than ready once his number is called.
The University of the East product also credited Alinsunurin, who is also his coach in the National team, for his improved play.
“Ang mindset ko talaga is be ready talaga kasi every game sinasabihan ako nila coach na ready ka lang mag-warm up ka lang sa loob,” Josafat said. “Kagabi pa lang nag-mindset na ako na kapag pinasok ako, focus sa blockings, focus sa palo, lahat.
He added, “Minindset ko rin ‘yung sarili ko na liga. First liga sa Pilipinas. Nag-training ako, inayos ko ‘yung training ko sa national team at ‘yung bubble. Dito talagang nagpursige ako sa pagkukulang ko, sa blockings at sa lahat.
“Sobrang natuto ako ng sobra sobra andami kong natutunan sa program ni coach Dante.”
Raring to bag his first-ever club championship, Lloyd Josafat vowed to go all out for Go for Gold-Air Force in the upcoming PNVF Champions League finals this Saturday.
“Ganun pa rin kung ano ‘yung mindset ko buong liga. Focus and siyempre kailangan relax lang. Walang pressure since first finals ko ‘to,” said Josafat.
“Gustong-gusto ko talaga ‘to makuha kasi if ever manalo kami first championship ko ‘to sa career ko.”
