Savouge rebounded from a tough opening-day loss by overcoming a gritty Far Eastern University-DN Steel squad in four sets, 25-22, 25-21, 23-25, 25-21, on Wednesday, October 29, in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference at Paco Arena. The Spin Doctors halted a late scare to move to 1-1 in the tournament.

Reymark Betco made a thunderous debut after sitting out Savouge’s opener, unloading 21 points — all from attacks — to spark the bounce-back win. Head coach Sydney Calderon said Betco’s long-awaited appearance brought a major lift to the squad.

“Malaking bagay na na-add sa’min si Betco kasi napaka-power na addition sa team namin,” Calderon said, noting the team’s packed schedule led to Betco sitting in Game 1. “Sabi ko gagamitin kita sa FEU.”

Savouge steadies after third-set slip

After failing to close the third frame despite leading 23-22, Savouge steadied in the fourth behind Betco, who fueled a key 3-0 burst for a 23-19 cushion. FEU tried to rally, but Charlee Magpayo’s quick and Shawie Caritativo’s final hammer sealed the outcome after one hour and 45 minutes.

Calderon stressed the importance of responding after their opening loss. “’Yung pagkatalo namin nung first game it doesn’t define who we are,” he said. “Mas maganda ‘yung comeback game.”

Solid support across the lineup

Mark Calado added 15 points on 13 kills, one block, and one ace. Setter JM Paglaon returned to active duty with 29 excellent sets and two points to outduel FEU’s 13-kill-block net wall. Caritativo delivered 10 markers, 20 receptions, and eight digs, while Giles Torres scored 10 points and Rikko Marmetto anchored the floor with 17 receptions and eight digs.

Savouge next faces University of Santo Tomas on Friday at 4 p.m. at Paco Arena as it looks to build momentum.

Dryx Saavedra led the Tamaraws with 19 points, while Christian Paul Salboro and Lirick Mendoza added 13 markers each. FEU-DN Steel slips to 0-1 and will try to bounce back against PGJC-Navy on Friday at 2 p.m.