PGJC-Navy scrambled for stability in the first three sets before dominating the fourth, handing Savouge RTU Basilan its initial defeat in the 2023 Spikers' Turf Invitational Conference, with scores of 25-23, 23-25, 25-21, and 25-11 on Friday at the Paco Arena in Manila.
The victory elevated the Sealions to a 2-1 record, placing them in a tie with the Golden Thunders for the second and third spots in Pool D.
"Yung sinabi ko sa kanila bago ang laro, kahit ano'ng mangyari, ilabas lang nila ang meron sila. Alam namin na binabantayan kami ng ibang tao dahil hindi pa lumalabas ang aming laro, pero sa kabutihan, nung ika-apat na set lumabas na," said Navy head coach Cecille Cruzada.
After the initial technical timeout in the fourth set, Lorenz Señoron delivered a down-the-line hit to narrow the gap to two, 6-8. However, this proved to be their final stand as Ashley Jacob, Owen Suarez, and Peter Quiel collaborated for eight unanswered points, leading to a decisive 25-11 victory that concluded the game in one hour and 52 minutes.
Holding only a one-point advantage late in the third set, 20-19, the trio of Greg Dolor, Joeven Dela Vega, and Christian Marcelino secured crucial points, putting the Sealions one set away from victory with a score of 25-21.
Dela Vega contributed a game-high 19 points, distributed through 13 spikes, three blocks, and three aces, complemented by nine digs. Marcelino followed with 15 points and 14 excellent receptions.
Dolor and Peter Quiel also added 10 points each for Navy, which dominated the net with 14 blocks, five of them attributed to the latter. Savouge managed only four blocks.
Señoron led the Golden Thunders with 16 points, 19 excellent receptions, and seven digs, while Ken Gaylawan contributed 15 points.
Navy aims for its third consecutive win next Friday against The Bayleaf Hotels, while Savouge is set to face Xentromall-EAC on November 19.
