Savouge showed grit and determination as they battled past Alpha Insurance in a grueling five-set showdown, 25-23, 25-23, 20-25, 20-25, 15-13, in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference at the Ynares Sports Arena on Wednesday, February 26.

The Spin Doctors suffered two key setbacks during the match, losing Lorenz Señoron (ankle) in the second set and Shawie Caritativo to a similar injury in the fifth. Despite this, Mark Calado, Angelo Reyes, and Hero Austria stepped up to help Savouge secure a crucial win and improve to 2-1 in the tournament.

Clutch Performance Seals the Victory

With the match going the distance, Savouge capitalized on Alpha Insurance’s errors late in the fifth set. Reyes and Calado made clutch plays, while Hero Austria sealed the victory with an off-the-block hit.

Caritativo led the team with 17 points, while Calado contributed 14. Head coach Sydney Calderon praised his squad’s resilience in overcoming adversity to bounce back from their previous defeat.

Savouge will now face unbeaten Criss Cross on Sunday, aiming to build momentum against one of the tournament’s top teams.

Criss Cross Stays Unbeaten, Cignal Dominates Again

Meanwhile, Criss Cross extended its winning streak to three after a hard-fought 25-17, 25-27, 25-20, 25-20 victory over PGJC-Navy. Nico Almendras led the way with 14 points and showcased strong floor defense, while setter Ish Polvorosa orchestrated a well-balanced attack.

A win over Savouge on Sunday would set up a potential showdown with defending champion Cignal, which remains undefeated after a commanding 25-21, 25-13, 25-19 triumph over VNS-Laticrete.

Steven Rotter spearheaded Cignal’s offense with 15 points, while Louie Ramirez made his return from injury, contributing five points. Head coach Dexter Clamor took advantage of his team’s depth, rotating players in the convincing victory.

Struggling Teams Look to Rebound

Winless Alpha Insurance and VNS-Laticrete, both at 0-3, will look to turn their seasons around when they clash on Sunday, March 2.