PGJC-Navy turned back Xentro Mall-EAC in five sets, 25-16, 22-25, 25-13, 21-25, 15-12, for its first win in the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference at the Paco Arena, Sunday night.
Joeven Dela Vega, a former national team standout, poured 23 points on 17 attacks, four aces, and three blocks to go along with nine excellent receptions,
Meanwhile, Christian Marcelino tallied 21 points but none bigger than the two consecutive hits he delivered to finish off the game.
With EAC still in the game after a Marvin Romero cross-court hit put the scores at 12-13, Marcelino delivered back-to-back cross-court hits of his own.
That finally ended the game after two hours and 10 minutes and lifted his team to a 1-1 standing in Pool D.
“Yun kasi yung sinasabi ko sa kanila, kahit anong mangyari, laruin lang nila yung fifth set. Matalo ‘man or manalo basta gawin nila yung laro nila, basta kung ano ‘man mangyari okay lang yun,” said Navy head coach Cecille Cruzada.
Edward Camposano and team captain Greg Dolor each had 11 points for the Sealions.
Owen Suarez dished 26 excellent sets while Jack Kalingking registered 15 excellent digs and 11 excellent receptions.
On the other hand, Ervin Osabel paced the 1-1 Generals with 18 points on 17 attacks.
Navy looks to sustain its momentum against Savouge-RTU Basilan on Friday, 3:00 PM. EAC will try to avenge its loss against FEU-Chef on a Diet on November 15, 3:00 PM.
