Philippine Air Force wrapped up its 2024 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference campaign in a manner mirroring its outset – with a winning performance – as it turned back VNS-Nasty, 29-27, 15-25, 23-25, 25-21, 15-13, at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig Friday.
But in-between their stint, the Airmen endured a rollercoaster ride, dropping all their matches throughout the tournament, as they finished with a 2-6 record for joint sixth with the Griffins. The latter, however, secured the higher spot due to superior match points.
A through-the-block hit by Wesley Cajolo put the Airmen at match point, 14-11, but Rocky Motol foiled Pol Salvador in the next play followed by a Kenneth Culabat drop ball, pulling the Griffins within, 13-14.
However, Herald Domingo came through with a thundering blast to seal the Airmen’s victory in two hours and 40 minutes.
Bryan Jaleco led the way for the Airmen with 21 points and 13 excellent receptions, while Cajolo backed him up with 18 markers.
Salvador contributed 11 points and shone with 10 receptions, while Domingo netted eight points spiked by five kill blocks for Air Force, which toppled RichMarc Sports in four last March 13 but yielded to Navy, the D’Navigators, Cignal, Maverick, Savouge Aesthetics and Criss Cross.
On the other hand, Wewe Medina who spearheaded the Griffins with 24 points, 20 excellent receptions and 12 digs, while Roniey Adviento poured in 20 points and Culabat added 16 points and produced 11 receptions.
