Talisay, Mandaue split titles

CEBU, Philippines - The Talisay spikers got a measure of sweet revenge after they lashed back at Mandaue - the very same squad that deprived them crowning glory last year - in straight sets, 3-0, to clinch the men's division championship of the 6th Governor Gwen Garcia Unity Volleyball (GUV) Cup yesterday at the full-packed Cebu International Convention Center.

It was a complete reversal of fortune in the women's division as Mandaue dethroned last year's City Cluster champion Talisay in straight sets, 25-22, 25-9, 25-15 courtesy of stellar performances from former RP Youth member Genie Sabas, Jusabelle Brillo, Erika Camille Verano, Danika Gendrauli, and Kennette Garces.

The Talisaynons, powered by RP Team member Rhovyl Verayo and Norvie Labuga with strong backing from Kennith Bensig, Kevin Casia, Ronald Acojedo and Ronald Moreno, surprised Mandaue with a 25-19 victory in the first set.

The Talisaynons sustained their sizzling run in the second set to push Mandaue on the brink of defeat, 25-15.

It was a different setting in the third set as Mandaue fought back with aplomb behind the efforts of Roderick Arenasa, Edward Ybañez, Jesriel Pino, Edward Carlo Tecson and Ramil Espinosa. After a tight duel and several exchange of lead, Mandaue zoomed to a 24-21 lead.

But what appears to be a golden opportunity turned into waste as Talisay’s Verayo, Moreno and Acojedo pulled their acts together to forge a 24-all deadlock.

A powerful attack moments later by Verayo pulled Talisay ahead, 25-24. Mandaue still had one last chance to stay alive, but Arenasa's spike went out, thus, giving the victory to the Talisaynons, 26-24.

“We did not expect to win championship this year because Mandaue is a very a tough opponent to handle especially that most of them are seasoned varsity players. But we prepared for them and our reinforcements, Verayo and Bensig, really helped us a lot," said Labuga.

“I could really say that our teamwork and determination to win motivated us all in this endeavor,” he added.

Aside from customized trophies and medals, the champion in both divisions received P100,000 each, while the runners-up took home P50,000. (FREEMAN)