Griffins clip Protectors, near semis slot

VNS-Laticrete banked on CJ Segui, who displayed his solid all-around game for a 17-25, 25-22, 25-23, 25-22 win over Alpha Insurance on Sunday and moved closer to the semifinal round of the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference at the Ynares Spirts Center.

After an opening set tumble, the Griffins regrouped and outplayed the Protectors in the crucial stages of the next three sets to boost their win-loss record to 3-6.

The loss dropped the Protectors’ slate to 2-7.

Segui logged 22 points, 20 from attacks and two aces, while showcasing his defensive skills with 19 excellent receptions and nine digs.

Veteran players Jayvee Sumagaysay and Bryan Jaleco also stepped up for VNS, contributing 12 and nine points, respectively. Jaleco, in particular, made a defensive impact with three of the team’s seven kill blocks, playing a crucial role in the Sports Vision-organized tournament.

The Protectors were on the brink of securing a commanding 2-0 set lead but let a four-point advantage slip away late in the second frame. Segui spearheaded the Griffins’ remarkable comeback, not only leveling the match but also shifting the momentum in favor of VNS.

“It’s always a battle of experience, and sometimes experience really prevails,” said VNS head coach Ralph Ocampo. “That’s why I brought in Bryan (Jaleco). He already knows what to do.”

“Segui is a young leader. No matter how strong he plays, he’s still young. But when Jayvee (Sumagaysay) returned, it provided leadership support,” Ocampo added.

With Alpha Insurance threatening to force a deciding fifth set, Segui rose to the occasion, unleashing a powerful off-the-block attack that gave VNS a crucial 23-20 lead. Although JJ Javelona tried to keep the Protectors in the game, KC Culabat responded with a well-placed cross-court shot to bring VNS to match point, 24-22.

Edward Camposano briefly kept the Protectors alive with an off-the-block hit, but Rash Nursiddik sealed the win for VNS with a running attack.

“Our opponents were strong and had the size advantage. We needed to play smart against a team like that,” said Ocampo. “In the first set, we were completely outplayed. Their serves were powerful, and we struggled to attack against their strong defense.”

Culabat provided solid support for the Griffins, finishing with 10 points and 12 excellent receptions, while Nursiddik added nine points in the crucial victory. Their win bolstered VNS’ chances of competing in the semis alongside unbeaten Criss Cross, defending champion Cignal and the unpredictable Savouge.

Jan Mangulabnan also shined with 22 excellent sets while scoring 14 points, and JM Espanso contributed 12 excellent digs.