VNS pumped life to its sagging semifinals bid, defeating winless Chichi DHTSI, 25-16, 27-25, 25-20, in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference Wednesday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.
The victory snapped the young Griffins' three-game skid, remaining at seventh spot with a 2-4 slate in the tournament organized by Sports Vision and supported by ArenaPlus, Mikasa, and Alpha Insurance & Surety Company.
“Very happy kasi ‘yung practice namin lumabas. Ayun, ngayon kasi is all about growth. I’m very happy na lahat ng pinaghihirapan namin, lumalabas siya sa games,” said VNS head coach Ralph Ocampo.
“Adjustments namin ay ‘yung maging consistent lang sa ginagawa. Kasi nung [laban] sa FEU, medyo maayos ‘yung laro namin then nung sa Navy, shaky. So ayun, maging consistent,” added Ocampo.
CJ Segui led the charge for the Griffins with 14 points, 13 of which came from attacks, and finished with 10 excellent receptions in the one-hour and 16-minute victory.
Julius Arcillo dominated at the net with six kill blocks to go along with three attacks and an ace to finish with 10 points, while Kenneth Daynata contributed 10 markers.
Justin Yatco anchored the offense with 13 excellent sets, while Joshua Cruz had 12 excellent receptions and six excellent digs.
VNS aims to build from this win when they face off against the D’Navigators Iloilo on Sunday at 4 p.m. at the same venue.
The Titans, on the other hand, dropped out of the semis race after absorbing their seventh straight defeat.
Christian Alicante led Chichi DHTSI with 14 points, while skipper Jonathan Sorio added 12 markers.
Matt Miguel, meanwhile, was limited to just four points.
The also-ran Titand will look to finally break through when they clask with the Martelli Meats Master Butchers in s duel of winless teams, also on Sunday at 2 p.m.
