PGJC-Navy clawed back from an early deficit in the extended fourth set to seize a thrilling 25-17, 16-25, 25-18, 33-31 victory over the Francis Saura-less D’Navigators in the battle for third place in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum Wednesday.
The Sealions, under the astute guidance of coach George Pascua, refused to surrender despite trailing by six points, rallying to snatch the fourth set from the D’Navigators and edging closer to clinching their first bronze medal since the 2022 Open Conference.
“Basta sabi ko ‘wag bibitaw kasi ang kalaban kahit wala si (Francis) Saura, ganun pa rin yung laro nila kaya dapat ‘wag maging complacent sa laro,” said Pascua.
Saura sat out the match due to knee injury.
“Kagaya nun, kahit wala si Saura lumaban sila. Kontrolado naman nila yung situation pero syempre, iba na yung makapanalo ka. ‘Yun naman ang goal namin,” added Pascua.
Following a dominant performance in the third set, the Sealions faced adversity as they trailed, 11-17, in the next frame. However, fueled by the collective prowess of Greg Dolor, Joeven Dela Vega, Omar Lioc and Wilbert Sapida, they staged a remarkable comeback, ultimately prevailing in a nail-biting finish.
Both squads exchanged thunderous hits after hits before Rash Nursiddik scored on a quick attack to tie the score at 31. However, a crucial service error from Deanne De Pedro paved the way for Peter Quiel to deliver a decisive blow, sealing the victory for the Sealions.
Dela Vega spearheaded Navy with 17 points on 15 attacks an ace and a block, while Quiel and Dolor each contributed 14 points in their second consecutive victory over the D’Navigators.
The Sealions dashed the D’Navigators’ finals aspirations with a come-from-behind five-set win last Sunday.
Sapida added 12 points while Lioc chipped in 10 points to go along with nine excellent receptions.
Louie Pudadera tossed 27 excellent sets while veteran libero Jack Kalingking collected 22 excellent receptions and 17 excellent digs in the victory.
On the other hand, Edward Camposano paced the D’Navigators with 17 points, 16 of which came from attacks, to go along with 13 excellent receptions.
Renz Engay registered 14 markers while Jayvee Sumagaysay and Nursiddik added 11 and 10 points, respectively.
Navy will try to wrap up the series on Friday at the same venue.
