Jeremy Pedrosa. Photo from Spikers’ Turf
MANILA, Philippines — VNS dealt another heartbreaking loss to defending champion National University-Archipelago, claiming a 25-21, 25-21, 19-25, 20-25, 17-15 victory in the 2023 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference on Sunday at Paco Arena.
The Griffins convincingly took the first two sets but they flirted with disaster after allowing the Builders, led by Philippine men’s volleyball team pool member Rwenzmel Taguiboos and Mac Bandola, to force a decider.
NU, which fielded its Team B to defend its crown in the tournament, was a point away from ending a three-game skid with Leo Ordiales blocking Pemie Bagalay’s attack for a 14-13 lead in the fifth set.
But Bagalay forced a deuce with a kill and brought VNS at match point, 15-14, only to miss his next attack that led to another tie. Ordiales, however, committed a costly service error before Noy Pedrosa delivered the game-clinching spike off NU’s blockers to triumph in the thrilling two-hour and 20-minute match.
“It’s difficult because our attacks are not high, we’re 10th in attacks but first in digs, so our goal is to convert all our digs into attacks,” said VNS coach Ralph Ocampo said. “I told the players to play with courage in their attacks because we have nothing to lose against a strong opponent.”
Pedrosa stood out in the VNS’ collective effort with 13 points, while Bagalay displayed an all-around game with 11 points, 18 excellent receptions, and seven digs.
Russel Fronda provided five of his team’s eight blocks to finish with 10 points, while his fellow middle blocker Rocky Motol also scored 10, including two blocks as the Griffins improved with a 2-2 record.
NU, which gave up 41 errors, remained winless in four games, where they played three five-setters.
Taguibolos led the Builders with 19 points off 14 attacks, four blocks, and a service ace. Bandola chipped in 18 points, while Bryan Jaleco added 16.