In a duel of debuting teams, Xentromall-Emilio Aguinaldo College held sway in the face of Alpha Omega’s gutsy stand in the third set as it completed a 25-17, 25-17, 25-23 victory in Pool D play in the 2023 Spikers' Turf Invitational Conference at the Paco Arena in Manila Friday.
The Generals built an early 9-3 lead in the final frame but the Elite Spikers rallied behind Anfernee Curamen, MJ Fortuna and Kim Tan to threaten at 23-24, capped by Tan’s back-to-back kills.
But Ruther Abor countered with a crosscourt kill to finish off the Elite Spikers in one hour and 26 minutes.
"Maganda naman kahit papaano medyo lumabas yung inensayo namin, expected ko naman na magiging maganda kasi may mga alumni tayo na naglalaro kaya naga-guide yung mga bata," said Generals head coach Rod Palmeron on their composure in the stretch.
Abor led EAC with 14 points on 12 attacks and two blocks and added six excellent digs, while Marvin Romero backed him with 12 points and eight digs.
Israel Encina delivered nine points while Juvie Mangaring added seven markers and seven excellent receptions.
Meanwhile, Alpha Omega drew 10 points from Tan, who also made six excellent receptions and five digs. Fortuna, meanwhile, came off the bench and scored eight points, including three blocks.
EAC will next face veteran-laden PGJC Navy on Nov. 5, while Alpha Omega tries to rebound against Savouge RTU Basilan on Nov. 3.
