VNS-One Alicia claimed the final ticket in the playoffs after beating Army-Katinko Oil in four sets, 25-20, 25-16, 26-28, 25-21 in the 2022 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference at the Paco Arena, Tuesday.
Ben San Andres once again stepped up for the Griffins, dropping 19 points on 12 attacks, six aces, and a block. He also had 16 excellent receptions and eight digs.
With the victory, VNS-One Alicia – which placed fourth after posting a 3-3 win-loss slate – joins PGJC-Navy, National University-Sta. Elena, and Cignal in the final four cast.
“Yung ibang Army players, player ko sa PNVF (Champions League). So sabi ko yung mga ‘yan, katulad kanina, nabasa na namin yung mga plays nila, ang gagawin nila is lalakasan yung loob. Sobrang tapang kasi ng mga ‘yan,” said Griffins head coach Ralph Ocampo.
“Sabi ko lang sa kanila, hindi tayo pwedeng mag-relax kasi tumatapang masyado yung Army. Sabi ko, yung tapang natin kung gaano sila katapang, i-times two natin. Kung kaya natin tapatan, tapangan din natin,” he added.
After taking the first two sets, VNS-One Alicia had the chance to close out the game in the third frame but found themselves in a 9-19 hole. The Griffins made a last-ditch attempt, saving six set points before bowing out.
In the fourth set, VNS-One Alicia led by as much as seven points, 20-13. Then consecutive errors from their side brought the Troopers to within three, 23-20. Yoyong Mendoza put on the final touches before a service error from John Diwa sealed the win.
Kim Malabunga chipped in 16 points, which includes four kill blocks. Meanwhile, Kevin Montemayor and Mendoza added 15 and 11 markers, respectively.
Ish Polvorosa dished 23 excellent sets to go along with five points, while Joshua Cruz had 24 excellent receptions.
Gampong, who was supposed to fly back to Tawi-Tawi a couple of days back, led the way for Army-Katinko Oil with 13 points while Diwa added 11.
The Troopers ended their campaign in seventh place with a 1-5 standing.
