CEBU, Philippines - Team X-Men and the University of San Carlos (USC) Warriors booked championship tickets in the 1st Niño Rabaya Cup Men’s Open volleyball tournament at the Talisay City gym.
X-Men passed through a four-set battle before overpowering the equally-tough Dindo Salon Xclusivz, 25-13, 18-25, 25-21, 25-22 behind the smart plays of Jonrey Sasing, Roderick Arenasa, Jesriel Pino, Norvie Labuga, Ruel Lato and Joselito “Tolits” Moncada.
On the other hand, the USC Spiking Warriors were also pushed to the limit before getting rid of Team Ador in five sets, 25-13, 25-19, 22-25, 23-25, 15-9.
Among those who figured prominently in USC's victory were Dennis Sepulveda, Kennith Bensig, Harvey Bernil, Bonvie Estrera, Alvin Bacayan and Jerone Maestre among others.
Aside from trophies and medals, the champion will pocket P8,000, while the second and third placers will get P6,000 and P4,000, respectively.
Team X-Men and USC will clash for the coveted championship on May 3 at the same venue.— (FREEMAN)