Savouge clinches no. 2 with authority, VNS still winless

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Savouge confirmed its semifinals-bound status with a straight-sets win over VNS Always Bright Laticrete, 25-21, 25-23, 25-20, on Tuesday, March 24, at the Paco Arena in Manila. The victory secured solo second place for the Spin Doctors in the 2026 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference.

Coming off a thrilling reverse sweep against Alpha Insurance Protectors last Friday, Savouge relied on roster depth for the non-bearing contest, fielding several reserve players. The win marked the team’s third consecutive victory, and ensured that even the result of their final elimination match against AEP-Cabstars would not affect their second-place finish.

JP Bugaoan contributed key blocks to secure Savouge’s victory. [Spikers Turf photo]

Strategic rotations highlight Savouge’s depth

Head coach Sydney Calderon emphasized the purpose of giving reserves meaningful playtime. “’Yon talaga yung purpose today na bigyan ng chance yung iba naming players na makapaglaro para ma-develop na rin yung confidence nila para sa papalapit na semifinals. At the same time, marami pa rin kami adjustments na kailangan gawin, kaya talagang rinotate namin sila para ma-exhaust lahat ng players namin today,” he said.

The Spin Doctors used an 8-2 run in the third set, capped by a JP Bugaoan block and a CJ Segui attack error, to put VNS in a decisive 22-15 hole. Angelo Reyes sealed the victory with a game-winning quick attack, ending the match in straight sets.

Key contributors and performance stats

Savouge’s reserves—Louie Gamban, John Daniel Diwa, and Renzel Antonio—helped the team start strong and secure a two-set advantage. Mark Calado led the scoring with 10 points from nine attacks and one block, while Angelo Reyes and JP Bugaoan added seven points each. Louie Ramirez, who exited due to a minor shoulder injury, finished with six points. John Enarciso delivered 14 excellent sets to orchestrate the offense.

For VNS, the Griffins remained winless in nine games. CJ Segui scored 12 points, supported by Winfred Santos with seven points, four excellent receptions, and two excellent digs. Despite the loss, VNS aims to end its campaign on a high note against the Protectors in its final game.