AEP Cabstars weathered a late push from VNS Always Bright Laticrete and secured a 25-18, 25-19, 25-22 victory in the Spikers’ Turf Open Conference at the Filoil EcoOil Centre on Friday, March 13. 

The straight-sets win lifted the Cabstars to a 3-3 record, allowing them to grab a share of third place alongside Alpha Insurance Protectors in the tournament.

AEP looked firmly in control after dominating the opening two sets with steady offense and disciplined defense. The Griffins, however, regrouped in the third frame and managed to turn the set into a tight battle that tested the Cabstars’ composure late.

Cabstars hold firm in tight third set

The Griffins threatened to steal momentum behind the combined efforts of Winfred Santos and Kian Pablo, who helped pull VNS within 21-20. The late rally created a tense finish as both teams traded crucial points in the closing stretch.

Jay Rack Dela Noche and Jared Schnake responded with back-to-back hits that pushed AEP to a 23-20 lead. Even when the Griffins closed the gap again, the Cabstars maintained their composure and finished strong by taking four of the last six points.

The final surge sealed the victory in just 70 minutes and prevented VNS from forcing an extended match.

“Actually nagbunga ‘yung practice games namin, tapos ‘yung team bonding namin so kailangan talaga namin ng maraming ganon for chemistry, para makilala namin ‘yung isa’t isa kaya siguro naging ganito ‘yung outcome ng game,” said AEP head coach Kitty Antiporta.

Balanced attack powers AEP

Dela Noche once again led the Cabstars’ offense with 18 points, converting 14 of his 29 spike attempts while also delivering four service aces. His consistent scoring presence anchored AEP’s attack throughout the match.

Schnake, a recent addition to the roster, contributed 14 points built on 10 attacks, three blocks and an ace. Middle blockers Nas Gwaza and Michael Doria added nine and seven points, respectively, providing solid support in the middle.

AEP dominated the statistical battle, finishing with a 45-37 advantage in attacks while controlling the net with a 7-4 edge in blocks. The Cabstars also produced seven service aces while limiting VNS to none, highlighting the Griffins’ reception struggles.

EJ Casaña directed the offense with 19 excellent sets while Vince Lorenzo anchored the backcourt defense with 15 excellent receptions and 11 excellent digs.

For VNS, Jerzy Santos finished as the lone double-digit scorer with 12 points. Winfred Santos and Terrence Marticion chipped in eight points each as the Griffins dropped to 0-7 and moved to the brink of elimination.