PGJC Navy sailed to a strong start in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference, sweeping Chichi DHTSI 25-20, 25-17, 25-15 at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.
Marvin Villanueva seized his moment in the spotlight as new Sealions head coach Mike Santos chose to rest Joeven dela Vega.
The 5-foot-11 wing spiker took full advantage, scoring a game-high 19 points on an efficient 14-of-23 attacking clip, along with three service aces and two blocks, earning the Player of the Game nod.
“Practice pays off. Sa practice maganda yung pinapakita niya. Sabi ko tuloy mo lang, huwag kang ma-pressure,” said Santos.
“Kung tutuusin, galing sa halos two weeks na pahinga from AFP Olympics, kaya kitang-kita nung first set kinakalawang pa. Pero natapos naman namin nang maayos—strong finish kami,” the Navy coach added, referring to their slow start.
The Sealions gradually found their rhythm in a close first set, ending it with a five-point run fueled by Greg Dolor, Villanueva, and Omar Lioc, aided by errors from the Titans, sealing the set at 25-20.
That 5-0 surge was all PGJC Navy needed to build confidence, as they dominated the next two sets to secure the match in just 70 minutes.
Open Conference 2024 Best Outside Spiker Greg Dolor and Best Middle Blocker Peter Quiel contributed 12 and 11 points, respectively, with setter Marvin Hairami orchestrating the offense, tallying 14 excellent sets.
PGJC Navy has only one day to recover before facing undefeated Far Eastern University-DN Steel on Sunday at the same venue.
Chichi DHTSI, meanwhile, remained winless in the 10-team elimination round after four games, with their last two losses coming in straight sets.
No Titans player reached double figures, with Rafael Del Pilar leading their scoring with six points.
Chichi DHTSI will return to action on November 3 against De La Salle-EcoOil at the Philsports Arena.
