Santa Rosa finally broke through, emerging victorious in a hard-fought five-set match over Vanguard, 21-25, 25-17, 25-22, 23-25, 15-11, bringing an end to the 2023 Spikers' Turf Open Conference Sunday triple-header at the Paco Arena in Manila.
After losing their first four matches, the Lions improved their record to 1-4, leaving defending champion National U-Archipelago as the only squad without a win.
Kevin Montemayor led the charge for Santa Rosa with 16 points, 14 of which were from attacks. Yoyong Mendoza and Gabriel Magsino each contributed 15 points to the victory. Middle blocker Anrie Bakil also chipped in with 12 points.
According to Lions head coach Edu Lirio, "We told them that these are moments where the boys are separated from men. They decided to fight because as coaches, we only give instructions, but the credit for this win goes to the players because they held on."
The Volley Hitters were undone by errors, giving up seven free points to Santa Rosa in the decisive fifth set. Bakil, Magsino, and Montemayor connected with their hits.
Joven Camaganakan and Razzel Palisoc each scored 16 points for Vanguard, with Camaganakan adding 14 excellent receptions. Vince Abrot also scored 15 points, while John Diwa had 11.
The Volley Hitters suffered their third consecutive defeat, bringing their record to 1-3, tied for eighth place.
