March 23, 2023

Elims loss to Cotabato was the wake-up call Disquitado needed

The Spikers' Turf Open Conference semifinals at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum were filled with excitement as the D'Navigators sought revenge against the Cotabato Spikers after a four-set loss in their previous match. The game was intense, and the players put on a show for the fans. However, it was Jade Disquitado, Iloilo's star player, who stole the spotlight with his impressive performance. Disquitado, a former Sta. Rosa ace, was extra motivated heading into the game, and it showed in his performance. He fired a game-high 19 points on 19 attacks, leading his team to a stunning 25-19, 25-22, 25-23 sweep of the Cotabato Spikers. The win was a massive bounce-back for Iloilo, especially against an AMC side composed of national team standouts, including Disquitado's teammates Jau Umandal, Jayvee Sumagaysay, Rex Intal, Steven Trotter, and Madz Gampong. After the game, Disquitado spoke about the team's motivation to win and how the previous loss fueled their performance. "The defeat was a massive motivation for us because we were already feeling down. Losing was a wake-up call for us, and it helped us regain our focus," he said. The 18-year-old up-and-coming star also mentioned the team's improved communication as a key factor in their success. "The difference in our game today compared to the eliminations was that everyone was enjoying, helping each other, communicating, and not letting go until the end," he said.