During Criss Cross’ straight-sets win over De La Salle-EcoOil, which secured their spot in the semifinals of the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference, some of the King Crunchers couldn’t help but reminisce about their collegiate rivalry.
Facing the Green and White brought back memories for Ysay Marasigan and other Ateneo de Manila University alumni, who played with joy and excitement reminiscent of their collegiate days.
Joining Marasigan from the Blue Eagles program were Rex Intal, Ish Polvorosa, Gian Glorioso, Chu Njigha, and Manuel Sumanguid.
“Actually, oo mas exciting kasi ayun nga, lalo na ngayon recently binabalik-balik ako ni Coach Tai (Bundit) sa starting so me, Rex, Gian, Ish, Sumang syempre naexperience namin ‘yung La Salle-Ateneo rivalry before nung college,” shared Marasigan after their victory on Sunday at the Ynares Sports Arena.
Marasigan, who has recently been given more court time compared to the start of the conference when he was seldom utilized, contributed 10 points in the win. Polvorosa also shone, tallying an impressive 20 excellent sets and scoring three points of his own.
The middle blocker duo of Intal and Glorioso made their presence felt at the net, while Sumanguid shared libero duties with Philip Pepito.
“Syempre masaya, may pressure, exciting, and ayun lang din pinakita namin ‘yung pagiging matatag namin at pagiging Blue Eagle of course,” said Marasigan, emphasizing their unyielding spirit against their long-time rivals.
(C) Jem Ferrer/Spikers Turf Images
While the match against the Green Oilers—La Salle’s moniker in this tournament—motivated him to perform at his best, Marasigan also praised the collegiate team for showcasing its high potential in the country’s premier men’s league, organized by Sports Vision and supported by ArenaPlus, Mikasa, and Alpha Insurance & Surety Company.
La Salle-EcoOil, which started strong with a 4-0 record, has faltered in its last three games. Despite the slump, the team still has a chance to clinch the last semifinals spot, needing to outlast both Savouge and PGJC Navy.
Meanwhile, FEU-DN Steel, another collegiate squad, along with Cignal and Criss Cross, have already advanced to the next round, where a guest team is set to elevate the competition further.
“Yun din naman talaga ang ineexpect namin sa kanila, sa La Salle at sa FEU, kaya sila nandito, kaya sila ‘yung top two teams ng V-League kasi magagaling sila,” said Marasigan, a five-time Best Opposite Spiker awardee.
“Natutuwa ako kasi tumataas talaga ‘yung level ng men’s volleyball kasi sumasabak sila dito sa Spikers’ Turf, so nakakaproud, nakakabilib, and nakakatuwa na ganon na ‘yung level na ipinapakita nila.”
