Savouge Spin Doctors turned the tide in dominant fashion, dismantling Criss Cross King Crunchers in straight sets, 25-22, 25-21, 25-19, to force a decisive Game 3 in the 2026 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference finals on Friday at the FilOil Centre.

Facing the brink after dropping the series opener, Savouge responded with urgency and precision, delivering a performance that flipped the momentum and placed the championship within reach. From the opening serve, the Spin Doctors imposed their will with aggressive play and disciplined execution.

Their defensive structure and floor coverage disrupted Criss Cross early, forcing errors and preventing the King Crunchers from settling into rhythm. What followed was a commanding display that few anticipated heading into the match.

Savouge adjustments fuel series turnaround

After a Game One defeat, Savouge made critical adjustments that quickly paid dividends. The team tightened its defensive patterns and improved its blocking schemes, resulting in a more cohesive and controlled performance throughout Game 2.

“We made the right adjustments after our Game One loss. We were able to address our lapses in certain areas, and it showed in Game 2,” said assistant coach Macky Cariño.

Head coach Sydney Calderon highlighted the team’s mindset shift, emphasizing the players’ willingness to embrace the challenge.

“Before we started ‘yung actual training namin yesterday, ang naging tanong ko lang sa team is this going to be the last day of our training or are we going to extend it until Saturday and then we go for Game 3 on Sunday. Sagot naman sa’kin lahat ng players gustong-gusto pa rin nila lumaban,” Calderon said.

“So sabi ko kayang-kaya naman natin so nag-adjust lang talaga kami sa defense patterns and blockings namin. Nilinis lang talaga namin siya in less than 24 hours lang ata namin ‘yun ginawa and good thing talagang ‘yung mga players sobrang tiyaga rin nila sa mga adjustments na ginawa ko sa team. Sobrang galing,” he added.

Calado leads balanced attack as Savouge dominates

Mark Calado spearheaded the Spin Doctors with 15 points, including 14 attacks, setting the tone offensively while maintaining consistency in crucial moments. His efficiency proved vital, converting 14-of-25 attempts and adding a block.

“Hindi naman ito makukuha ng madali,” Calado said. “Kung gusto naming magkaroon ng Game 3, kailangan pag-hirapan.”

“Sobrang thankful ako sa mga teammates at coaches, nag-trabaho din sila ng husto,” he added.

JC Enarciso also stepped up after a limited role in Game One, orchestrating the offense with 22 excellent sets that allowed Savouge to distribute scoring more effectively. Four players finished in double figures, highlighting the team’s improved balance.

JP Bugaoan, Louie Ramirez, and Giles Torres each added 10 points, while Shawie Caritativo contributed seven markers along with strong reception numbers and defensive plays.

With Criss Cross threatening in the third set, Savouge leaned on Calado, who delivered key hits down the stretch, scoring four of the team’s last eight points to seal the straight-sets victory in one hour and 24 minutes.

The Spin Doctors dominated in attacks, 46-35, and committed fewer errors, 13-20, offsetting Criss Cross’ edge in blocking. Their consistency and composure in extended rallies proved decisive.

Criss Cross struggled to replicate its Game One form, with four-time MVP Jude Garcia limited to just 10 points after a 26-point outing previously. Alche Gupiteo returned with 10 points, while Lloyd Josafat and Jaron Requinton chipped in nine each, but it was not enough to stop Savouge’s surge.

Now with momentum firmly on their side, the Spin Doctors head into the winner-take-all Game 3 brimming with confidence and determination.

“Nadagdagan lalo kami ng confidence sa panalong ito. Mas pag-iiigihan pa namin sa training and we won’t stop until we get that championship,” Calado said.