Vanguard escapes NU-Archipelago in error-filed Spikers’ Turf match

Vanguard Volley Hitters Vince Abrot leads his team to victory in the Spikers League. – PVL PHOTOS

MANILA, Philippines – Vanguard had a mistake-filled 2023 Turf Spikers Open Conference debut but a costly mistake by defending champion National University-Arsenal allowed the newcomers to escape 25-18, 18-25, 26-24, 13 -25 , a 15-10 victory at the Paco Arena.

The Volley Hitters surrendered a total of 27 service errors out of 44 miscues in their first club league match and allowed the Builders – made up of the NU B Team men’s volleyball team – to take control of the fourth set to force a decider.

But Vince Abrot came to rescue Vanguard in the fifth, where he scored five of the 15 points en route to victory.

He dispatched four of Vanguard’s seven straight points in the final set to take a commanding 12-3 lead. But he committed a team-high 27th service error followed by several errors from his teammates and key hits by Joseph Bello, Mac Bandola, and Leo Ordiales that allowed NU to make it three, 13-10.

Volley Hitters dodged a bullet as Bandola committed back-to-back attacking errors for NU-Nusantara, including a spike that hit the antenna, which allowed the more experienced opponent to escape after a thrilling two-hour match.

“Being a veteran team is an advantage for us because regardless of what happens in the game, they know what to do when it comes to the important part of the match,” said Vanguard head coach Edjet Mabbayad in Filipino.

“I just told them to play the game and we can’t let our younger opponents control the tempo and give us chances because they are aggressive.”

Razzel Palisoc dropped 20 points off 18 attacks, one ace, and a block. Joven Camaganakan had 13 points, eight receptions, and seven digs, as setter Ron Villegas dished out 16 excellent sets for Vanguard, which joined Iloilo, Imus, and Army at the top of the standings.

Bandola had 14 points to lead the Builders, who surrendered 35 errors including 17 service miscues.

Ordiales scored 11 points, including four blocks and four aces. Bryan James Jaleco had 10 markers, while Rwenzmel Taguibolos added nine of his four blocks.

NU started its bid to retain the title with a loss as coach Dante Alinsunurin fielded his second team as last year’s core players led by MVP Nico Almendras, Michaelo Buddin, and setter Joshua Retamar are now preparing for the UAAP Season 85 men’s volleyball tournament next month.

RELATED STORY

Get the hottest sports news straight to your inbox

Read Next

Don’t miss the latest news and information.

For suggestions, complaints, or questions, please contact us.