DN Steel-FEU and EcoOil-La Salle look to extend their winning runs as they face a pair of struggling teams at the resumption of the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference elimination round on Friday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.
The Ultras, led by Dryx Saavedra and Doula Ndongala, are aiming for their fifth consecutive win and the top spot as they take on the Martelli Meats Master Butchers in the 6 p.m. main game of another explosive triple-header.
Despite the Master Butchers’ winless record, DN Steel-FEU head coach Eddieson Orcullo has emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and staying on guard against complacency, especially with a highly anticipated showdown against the Savouge Spin Doctors looming on Sunday.
Reflecting on their recent five-set comeback victory over the VNS Griffins last Sunday, Orcullo said, "Marami pang kailangan i-adjust. Siguro kailangan pag-usapan ‘yung mind-setting ulit kasi ang hirap kapag utak ang kalaban."
In the 2 p.m. opener, La Salle-EcoOil (2-0) clashes with D’Navigators-Iloilo, currently eighth in the standings with a 1-3 record. While the Green Oilers secured comfortable sweeps in their first two matches, head coach Jose Roque knows they’re up against a skilled and experienced opponent in D’Navigators.
Led by reliable scorers Madz Gampong, Edward Camposano and Barbie San Andres, along with middle blockers Jayvee Sumagaysay and Vince Himzon, the D’Navigators present a well-rounded challenge.
“We watched yung previous games ng D’Navigators. Hindi mo sila p’wedeng maliitin, complete setup din ang composition nila. I think ang edge siguro namin ay medyo young kami compared to them pero kailangan talaga namin silang paghandaan,” said Roque.
At 4 p.m., Criss Cross, determined to bounce back after a tough five-set defeat to Cignal, test the rising PGJC Navy side’s mettle. The King Crunchers’ star, Open Conference MVP Jude Garcia, delivered a remarkable 35-point performance in their last game, but it wasn’t enough to secure the win.
Meanwhile, the Navy Sealions, led by Joeven dela Vega and Greg Dolor, are riding a wave of momentum with back-to-back wins, holding a 3-1 slate for a share of third spot in the season-ending conference organized by Sports Vision and supported by ArenaPlus, Mikasa, and Alpha Insurance & Surety Company.
