CEBU, Philippines - The University of San Carlos (USC) spikers sustained their sizzling run at the expense of the previously undefeated Dindo Salon Xclusivz in the men’s division of the 1st Sinulog Jiboren’s Cup volleyball tournament the other night at Pasil Sports Complex.
After gunning down the University of Southern Philippines Foundation (USPF), the Roderick Arenasa-mentored Carolinians made another impression as they rallied back from a first-set drawback to crush Team Dindo in three sets.
Dindo Salon Xclusivz bannered by RP Team member Jonrey Sasing got off to a flying start to take the first set, 25-15, behind the smart plays of former USPF stalwarts, Angellan Visoc, Clifford Cafe, Maynard Alejandrino, James Ryan Rivera and SWU coach Joerem Yu.
But that proved to be their brightest moment.
Flashing an indomitable fighting spirit, USC fired back with a hard-earned 25-22 victory in the second frame to forge a deciding battle, thanks to the likes of Edward Carlo Tecson, Dennis Sepulveda, Earvin Gallegos, Harvey Bernil, Kennith Bensig and Bonvie Estrera.
In the rubbermatch, both sides figured in a closely-knit duel resulting into a 22-all deadlock. It was then that the big-hearted Sepulveda took matters into his own hands by converting three successive kills to vault USC into a breath-taking triumph.
“I was surprised with their performance. I could see that they’re really trying their best even if we have an incomplete lineup. Also, this tournament is a big exposure for my players because they got the opportunity to play against some of the legendary and highly-skilled players in Cebu,” said Arenasa.
In the other match, John Patrick Caylo (JPC) nipped USPF in three straight sets, 16-25, 25-23, 25-22.
Despite the setback, Team Dindo still emerged as the elimination round topnotcher with a 7-1 win-loss record. JPC is the No.2 qualifier followed by USC with a 6-2 slate and USPF with a 5-3 card.
In the crossover semifinals on January 10, Dindo Salon Xclusivz will take on USPF, while JPC squares off against USC. In the distaff side, USPF faces USC, while Froilan goes up against Team Cebu City.
The winners will then clash for the championship. (FREEMAN NEWS)