In a duel of youngteams, Sta. Rosa repelled Ateneo-Fudgee Barr, 25-20, 17-25, 25-17, 25-23, to break through after three games in the 2022 Spikers Turf Open Conference, Tuesday at Paco Arena.
Gab Hernandez changed gambit in flight, opting for a drop shot instead of a kill and hitting an unguarded spot for the clincher that lifted the City Lions to victory after blowing their bid in five against VNC Griffins the last time out.
"Pinakamasarap itong first win!" said Santa Rosa City head coach Edu Lirio. "Sobrang hirap. Para kaming nakawala sa chain, sana dire-diretso para sa team."
Jade Disquitado spearheaded the Lions, who got 47 free points off Ateneo's errors, with 11 points and seven digs.
Hernandez brothers Gabby and Emman produced nine points apiece, while Dave Lardizabal chipped in eight points, including two blocks.
The Lions now rose to 1-2, good for fifth, while sending the Blue Eagles to 0-3 for rock bottom.
The trio of Kennedy Batas, Pacinio, and Salarzon tried to lift Ateneo-Fudgee Barr with 15, 14, and 10 points, respectively.
