PGJC-Navy narrowly escaped disaster but recovered its composure to fend off Savouge Aesthetics in a five-set thriller, 27-25, 28-26, 22-25, 16-25, 15-11, and extend its win run to four after an initial setback in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference at the Paco Arena Wednesday.
While the Sealions struggled defensively after clinching hard-fought victories in the first two extended sets, they managed to respond to the challenge in the decider, pounding out the grueling two-hour, 26-minute victory for provisional hold of the third spot at 4-1.
Joeven Dela Vega emerged as the standout player for the Sealions, unloading a game-high 27 points, powered by 24 attacks, two blocks and an ace to help the team secure the win.
“Doon kami nag-lapse sa depensa nung third at fourth sets. Naging complacent,” said Navy head coach George Pascua, reflecting on his wards’ performance.
Forced to rebound in the fifth, the Sealions surged to a five-point lead with Dela Vega, Greg Dolor and Louie Pudadera combining for a decisive 6-1 run that shattered a 5-all count.
Jeremy Pedrosa and Charlee Magpayo scored on back-to-back plays as the Spin Doctors countered with their own three-point binge. But the Sealions remained composed, with Omar Lioc, Marvin Villanueva and Dela Vega delivering key hits to seal the victory.
“Satisfied naman, sabi ko nga kahit anong set importante manalo kami. Sabi ko ‘wag silang maging kampante kasi yung kalaban mas bata, mas aggressive. So kailangan tiyagain sa floor defense,” added Pascua.
Dolor contributed 17 points, all on attacks, while Peter Quiel and Lioc added 13 and 11 points, respectively. Lioc also finished with 10 excellent receptions and four excellent digs in a superb all-around game.
Jack Kalingking stood out on defense and registered 20 excellent receptions and 13 excellent digs while Pudadera provided 13 excellent sets.
The Sealions try to stretch their streak to five when they face the VNS-Nasty Griffins on Sunday at the Philsports Arena.
Meanwhile, Savouge Athletics dropped their third consecutive game to fall to 1-3 for fifth.
Sherwin Caritativo top scored for the Spin Doctors with 20 points to go along with 20 excellent receptions but failed to deliver in the clutch while Pedrosa and Magpayo had 17 and 12, respectively.
Savouge will seek to bounce back against Philippine Air Force, also on Sunday.
