MANILA – D’Navigators-Iloilo moved to a share of the top spot in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference after a 25-20, 25-23, 26-24 triumph over VNS Nasty Griffins at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.
Francis Saura once again led the D’Navigators-Iloilo with 12 points on 10 attacks and two blocks as they tied the Cignal HD Spikers on top of the standings with a 4-0 win-loss record.
Edward Camposano added 10 markers, Rick Adao showcased his defensive prowess with eight digs and eight receptions while Jayvee Sumagaysay contributed nine points to the team’s victory.
In a tightly contested third set, the D’Navigators-Iloilo capitalized on crucial miscues from the Griffins, particularly back-to-back service errors, to secure the win in straight sets.
“Sumabay kami doon sa VNS, kung mabagal ang VNS mabagal din kami pero okay lang at least nakuha kahit papaano, nakuha sa tiyaga,” said D’Navigators-Iloilo head coach Boyet Delmoro.
Manuel Medina paced the Griffins with 18 points on 16 spikes, a block, and an ace and produced seven excellent receptions, while Kenneth Culabat and Bornel finished with nine points apiece. They dropped to 0-3.
Meanwhile, PGJC-Navy Sealions kept their win streak going in the tournament after a 25-19, 25-12, 25-22 sweep of Richmarc Sports 3B Elite Spikers.
Greg Dolor led the Sealions’ charge with 15 points built on 12 attacks, two blocks and a service ace along with five excellent receptions as the Sealions improved to a 3-1 record.
Despite their dominant performance in the first two sets, the Sealions were challenged in the third set as they were down 15-18 before Joeven Dela Vega and Dolor anchored Navy’s fight back to secure the straight set win.
“Kampante ako na kaya nilang habulin hanggang dulo, matured enough na sila para habulin ‘yung ganung situation,” said Sealions head coach George Pascua./PN
