VNS showed grit and spunk coming off a dismal fourth set performance, outlasting fancied Imus-ITP in the decider to carve out a 12-25, 25-20, 25-21, 11-25, 15-13 decision and bolster its semifinal drive on Sunday at Paco Arena.
The Griffins blew a 4-1 lead in the fifth but pulled through in a fierce back-and-forth stretch that featured eight deadlocks, pouncing on a Ronniel Rosales’ net violation to shatter the 12-all count then moving to match point on a kill block, also against the top Imus hitter.
The AJAA Spikers saved a match point in the ensuing play but the Griffins set up Russell Fronda for a quick attack to finish off the former and hike their record to 4-3
Imus, which dominated the first set but succumbed to VNS' gallant stand in the next two before routing the Griffins in the fourth, took its second loss against five wins but remained at second behind the unbeaten Cignal.
Pemie Bagalay and Jeremy Pedrosa spearheaded the upset victory that put the Griffins at the fourth spot with a 4-3 standing. Both players scored 17 points with the former also collecting 24 excellent receptions.
