The Savouge Spin Doctors proved their mettle under pressure, clinching the final semifinal slot in the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference with a commanding 25-23, 29-27, 25-18 triumph over the EcoOil La Salle Green Oilers on Friday, November 29 at the Ynares Sports Arena.

Savouge’s victory showcased their poise and resolve, as they rallied to win two tightly contested opening sets before dominating the third frame. With a 6-2 record, they joined Cignal, Criss Cross, and DN Steel FEU in the semifinal round, regardless of the outcome of their final eliminations match against the King Crunchers on Sunday.

The result dashed the semifinal hopes of the Green Oilers, who finished with a 4-4 record after their fourth consecutive loss, and the Navy Sealions, whose chances were also extinguished.

“Before the match, I told the team not to feel pressured. Just execute what we’ve been training for, and I think that was the key to our win today,” said Savouge head coach Sydney Calderon.

Sherwin Caritativo spearheaded the Spin Doctors’ attack with 16 points, including 14 spikes, while Hero Austria sealed the match with a decisive combination play in the third set. A video review confirmed the final point, cementing Savouge’s place in the semis.

“It was a do-or-die game for us. We didn’t rest after our win against D’Navigators. We went straight into training,” said Caritativo, emphasizing the team’s determination.

Savouge showed their grit in the opening sets. Trailing 20-22 in the first set, they rallied behind Caritativo, Austria, and Charlee Magpayo to claim the set. In the second, they saved multiple set points before Caritativo delivered a crosscourt kill and an ace to edge out La Salle.

The third set was less dramatic, as Savouge surged to an 18-12 lead behind contributions from Austria and Giles Torres, wrapping up the match in under two hours.

Calderon credited their preparation for pressured situations as a factor in their success: “Part of our training involves playing from behind and handling pressure, and I’m so happy they applied it today.”

Torres added 13 points from 10 spikes and three blocks, while setter Michael Imperial orchestrated the offense with 18 excellent sets. Austria, Magpayo, and De Pedro contributed nine points apiece.

For La Salle, Joshua Magalaman and Noel Kampton scored 11 and 10 points, respectively, but their strong 4-0 start was undone by a string of losses, ending their semifinals bid.

Savouge’s resurgence, highlighted by their shutout win over D’Navigators, propelled them to the semifinals. With their momentum peaking, the Spin Doctors are now set to face the league’s top contenders in the next round.