De La Salle University-Ecooil bounced back from an opening-set loss to defeat PGJC-Navy in four sets, 22-25, 25-21, 25-19, 25-23, marking their fourth consecutive victory in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference.
Vince Maglinao turned in his best performance of the tournament so far, posting a game-high 21 points along with 14 excellent digs, leading the Green Oilers to a blazing 4-0 start in this tournament organized by Sports Vision.
With support from the team’s reserves, Maglinao fended off a determined fourth-set rally from the Sealions, securing the win after nearly two hours of play.
“Happy, though medyo slow start. Pero somehow, nagising din sila after nung first set. Na-realize nila na hindi pwedeng relax relax lang,” said La Salle head coach Jose Roque after the match.
“Kailangan namin talagang magseryoso eh. Hindi tayo pwedeng magbigay ng segundo o minuto para [makahabol] ‘yung kalaban. Kailangan i-stop agad,” he added.
Joshua Magalaman made his presence known at the net, contributing six of La Salle’s 17 total blocks and finishing with 14 points.
Glen Ventura also scored 14 markers, adding 10 attacks and four kill blocks.
Yoyong Mendoza added nine points, while Noel Kampton, who only appeared in the first set, recorded four points as La Salle climbed to third in the Invitational Conference standings, supported by ArenaPlus, Mikasa, and Alpha Insurance & Surety Company.
Jericho Adajar expertly orchestrated the offense with 22 excellent sets and added four points.
Team captain Menard Guerrero contributed 12 excellent receptions and nine digs.
The Green Oilers will aim for a fifth straight win when they face Cignal on Friday at 6:00 p.m. at the same venue.
Meanwhile, Navy suffered its second consecutive loss, dropping to sixth place with a 3-3 record.
Peter Quiel, Greg Dolor, and Nilo Jasmin each contributed 10 points for the Sealions in the defeat.
Navy will attempt to bounce back on Friday at 4:00 p.m. in a matchup against Savouge.
