PGJC-Navy scrambled for stability in the first three sets before having its way in the fourth to deal Savouge RTU Basilan its first loss in the 2023 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference, 25-23, 23-25, 25-21, 25-11, Friday at the Paco Arena in Manila.
The victory pushed the Sealions to a 2-1 record, tied with the Golden Thunders for second to third spots in Pool D.
“Yung sinabi ko kasi sa kanila before the game, kahit anong mangyari ilabas lang nila kung anong meron sila. Alam kasi namin binabantayan din kami ng mga tao kasi hindi pa lumalabas yung laro namin, buti nung fourth set lumabas,” said Navy head coach Cecille Cruzada.
After the first technical timeout of the fourth period, Lorenz Señoron hammered a down-the-line hit to pull Savouge back within two, 6-8.
However, that would be their last stand.
Ashley Jacob, Owen Suarez, and Peter Quiel teamed up for eight unanswered points to pave the way for the 25-11 rout that ended the game in one hour and 52 minutes.
Ahead by just a point late in the third, 20-19, it was the trio of Greg Dolor, Joeven Dela Vega, and Christian Marcelino who made the necessary points to put the Sealions a set away from victory, 25-21.
Dela Vega punched in a game-high 19-point effort spread through 13 spikes, three blocks, and three aces laced with nine digs. Marcelino followed with 15 points and 14 excellent receptions.
Dolor and Peter Quiel also chipped in 10 points apiece for Navy, which dominated the net with 14 blocks, five coming off the latter. Savouge only managed four blocks.
Señoron paced the Golden Thunders with 16 points, 19 excellent receptions, and seven digs.
On the other hand, Ken Gaylawan had 15 points to his name.
