Alpha Insurance returned to form after a previous shutout loss, defeating 3B in straight sets, 25-20, 25-14, 25-19. The Protectors’ win strengthened their hold on third place in the Spikers’ Turf Open Conference at the FilOil Playtime Centre on Friday, March 13.

The victory improved Alpha Insurance’s record to 4-3, moving them ahead of AEP-Cabstars (3-3) while handing Event Masters their fifth defeat in seven matches. Unbeaten Criss Cross (6-0) and second-place Savouge (4-1) remain poised to claim the first two Final Four berths.

Protectors dominate with balanced attack

JM Ronquillo led Alpha Insurance with 12 points, including six blocks, five attacks, and an ace. Edward Camposano added nine points with 14-of-19 receptions, while captain Jeff Abuniawan contributed seven points as coach Mike Santos rotated all 14 players.

Jau Umandal, JM Apolinario, and Wesley Cajolo combined for six unanswered points, giving the Protectors a 19-9 lead in the third set. Event Masters threatened at 19-23 with a 10-4 run led by Vincent Ramos, Kenneth Daynata, Louise Bartolome, and Christian Olaes, but a service error from Bonjomar Castel and a kill from Cajolo secured the win.

Event Masters fall short despite rally

Ramos led 3B with 10 points and five digs, while Carl Berdal contributed nine points and 12 excellent receptions. Despite a late surge, 3B could not recover, allowing Alpha Insurance to claim a decisive bounce-back win.

Alpha Insurance, which also routed 3B in the first round, will have a six-day break before facing Savouge Aesthetics next Friday. Meanwhile, 3B will attempt to revive their semifinal hopes against Savouge on Wednesday.