Savouge aims to capitalize on its opportunity to take solo control of the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference elimination round as it seeks a third straight win today (Friday) at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.
Following a hard-fought five-set victory over Martelli Meats and a dominant three-set sweep against the VNS Griffins, the Spin Doctors face a tougher challenge in their 6 p.m. match against the Cignal HD Spikers.
The HD Spikers, who topped the Open Conference last May, kicked off their campaign for a second championship with an emphatic three-set win over the winless Chichi DHTSI Titans. With their dominant form, Cignal remains the favored team, expected to halt Savouge’s impressive early run.
Still, Savouge coach Sydney Calderon remains optimistic about their chances.
“Nakaka-boost ng confidence namin itong 2-0 start, especially Cignal ang kalaban namin na sunod,” said Calderon. “We don’t feel any pressure at all kasi we’re all excited to compete against them kasi gusto rin namin matuto sa kanila.”
Despite Cignal’s clear edge in experience and firepower, head coach Dexter Clamor is cautious of Savouge’s capabilities.
“Hindi madaling kalaban ang Savouge. Hindi basta-bastang team, ang daming combinations. Kung magiging complacent kami sa lalaruin namin, hindi maganda,” said Clamor.
Savouge will rely on a balanced attack led by former Cignal standout Giles Torres, along with Lorenz Señoron, Norwel Sanama and Louis Gamban. On the other side, Cignal will count on key players Jau Umandal and newcomers JM Ronquillo and Joshua Retamar.
In the 4 p.m. curtain-raiser, PGJC Navy makes its debut in the tournament against the struggling Chichi DHTSI Titans, who are eager to snap their three-game losing streak.
Navy will count on high-scoring duo Greg Dolor and Joeven Dela Vega, as well as top setter Louie Pudadera.
For the Titans, there’s nowhere to go but up but key players like Matthew Miguel and Jonathan Sorio must step up to inspire their teammates and turn their fortunes around.
Games are aired live on One Sports and One Sports+, with video-on-demand options available through the Pilipinas Live app. Matches are also streamed via the official Spikers’ Turf website.
Games Friday (Ynares Sports Arena, Pasig)
4 p.m. – Chichi DHTSI vs PGJC Navy
6 p.m. – Savouge vs Cignal
