The PGJC Navy Sealions kept their semifinal dreams alive with a hard-fought victory over Savouge, 25-23, 22-25, 25-20, 25-22, in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference preliminaries on Friday, November 15, at the Ynares Sports Arena.

The win propels the Sealions to solo sixth place with a 4-3 record, keeping them in contention with two crucial matches remaining against Martelli Meats on November 27 and Cignal on November 29.

“We prepared 100 percent, even 200 percent, for Savouge because we knew they would come out fighting hard after their previous loss,” shared PGJC Navy head coach Mike Santos.

Dynamic Trio Leads the Charge
Joeven dela Vega, Greg Dolor, and Marvin Villanueva powered the Sealions’ balanced offense. Dela Vega delivered a team-high 18 points, complemented by eight excellent receptions and five digs. Villanueva added 15 points, while Dolor contributed 11 points in the pivotal win.

Peter Quiel showcased his blocking prowess, scoring seven of Navy’s 12 blocks to finish with 14 points. Setter Louie Pudadera masterfully distributed the ball with 17 excellent sets and scored three points of his own.

Defensive Brilliance
Jeremy Santos anchored the Sealions’ defense with 19 excellent receptions and 12 digs, neutralizing Savouge’s relentless attacks led by Sherwin Caritativo, who recorded 19 points and 19 receptions.

Savouge Slips to Fifth Place
The loss marked Savouge’s second consecutive defeat after a blazing 4-0 start to the season-ending conference. Now at 4-2, the team sits at fifth place, just above the Sealions. Louis Gamban added 14 points and five digs for Savouge in a valiant but ultimately unsuccessful effort.

With their semifinal aspirations hanging in the balance, the Sealions face a challenging schedule ahead, but their latest victory signals their determination to rise to the occasion.