Carcar spikers top Cluster 1 in GUV Cup

CEBU, Philippines - The gritty Carcar City spikers came up with the biggest surprise this year as they swept all their opponents to clinch the men’s title in Cluster 1 of the 7th Governor Gwen Garcia Unity Volleyball (GUV) Cup yesterday at the Bonifacio R. Bacaltos Sports Centrum in the municipality of Sibonga.

The Carcaranons already made an impression when they fended off men’s defending champion Talisay City during the opening match last week at the Cebu International Convention Center (CICC).

Carcar sustained its momentum with finesse, thrashing Naga, 25-5, 24-26, 25-14 and Minglanilla, 25-23, 17-25, 25-14. They went on to overpower Argao, 25-16, 26-24, Sibonga, 25-14, 25-17 and San Fernando via default.

Among those who shone brightly for Carcar’s victory were Bonvie Estrera, Dennis Sepulveda, Ariel Carumba, Ken Bhoyd Abunda and their imports, Jason Uy and Ryan Fuentes.

Talisay, on the other hand, still has a chance to defend its men’s title at its ranked second place to secure the other quarterfinal ticket.

The Talisaynons pummeled Minglanilla and City of Naga with identical scores, 25-15, 25-22. The then routed host Sibonga, 25-19, 25-8, Argao, 25-11, 25-13 and San Fernando via default.

Talisay’s triumph was spearheaded by Norvie Labuga along with Kennith Bensig, Jerone Maestre and their imports, RP team member Rhovyl Verayo and Jesriel Pino.

In the elementary division, Minglanilla reigned supreme followed by Talisay.

The top two finishers in different divisions automatically earned tickets into the quarterfinals slated this December. - THE FREEMAN