D’Navigators survive Chichi DHTSI Brotherhood in five sets to open the Spikers' Turf Invitational Conference.
Dragged into a grueling five-set duel by a determined Chichi DHTSI Brotherhood side, D’Navigators turned what seemed destined to be a nail-biting finish into a dominant final-set victory, securing a 21-25, 25-16, 25-17, 17-25, 15-6 win to kick off their campaign in the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig on Wednesday.
Kyle Villamor shone as the game’s best player, delivering 21 points, including 18 kills and three blocks.
Despite being favored to breeze past the DHTSI squad, D’Navigators struggled early, dropping the opening set. However, they regained their composure with back-to-back dominant sets, taking a 2-1 lead.
Still, complacency crept in during the fourth set, allowing the Titans to force a decider.
The D'Navigators overcame early struggles in the fifth set to secure victory, using a pivotal 8-0 run, ignited by Steven Sta. Maria, to shift the momentum.
D'Navigators will aim to build on their momentum as they face the DN Steel-FEU squad on Sunday at 6 p.m. at the same venue.
Meanwhile, the Titans will look to bounce back against the DN Steel-FEU side this Friday at 4 p.m. at Ynares.