Youthful Cabuyao held off the veteran Philippine Air Force, 25-22, 20-25, 25-21, 25-21, to remain unbeaten in Pool B of the 2023 Spikers' Turf Invitational Conference at the Paco Arena in Manila on Friday evening.
The Cabstars relied on Joshua Ramilo, who contributed 15 points, including 14 attacks, and showcased reliability on the defensive end with 15 excellent receptions and 10 digs.
Dominic Panganiban led Cabuyao's breakaway in the fourth frame, scoring two in their five unanswered points to transform a slim 16-14 lead into a commanding 21-14 advantage, ultimately thwarting the Airmen's late attempt for a comeback.
"Malaki yung respeto namin doon sa Air Force, grabe champion team yan, galing sa champion culture talaga so siguro kung paano lang kami magprepare doon lang kami lumamang. Yung pusong gustong manalo, siguro yun yung key namin kung bakit kami nanalo ngayon," said Cabstars head coach Christian Antiporta.
Cabuyao improved to 2-0, matching EcoOil-La Salle's record atop their bracket, while the Airmen slipped to 1-2, placing them fifth just above winless PCU Dasmariñas-SASKIN.
Panganiban and middle blocker Gab Magsino contributed 12 points each, while Michael Doria had 11 points. Jomar Soriano also played a crucial role in the win with eight points and 13 excellent receptions.
JR Labrador led Air Force with 21 points, supported by eight digs, while Ranran Abdilla and Edwin Tolentino added 18 and 11 points, respectively.
