Jaja, Bryan struggle

Jaja Santiago and Bryan Bagunas lost in their respective matches in the Japan V. League on Saturday.

Santiago’s Saitama Ageo Medics suffered their first loss following a 21-25, 26-28, 25-17, 23-25 setback to reigning champion JT Marvelous in the women’s division while Bagunas and the Oita Miyoshi Weisse Adler surrendered a 21-25, 25-16, 22-25, 20-25 decision to Wardogs Nagoya in the men’s play.

JT Marvelous banked on their import in American Annie Drews, who dropped 22 of her 23 points from attacks keep her squad on top with a 3-0 record.

Both teams will meet again on Sunday with the Medics – the reigning V. Cup champion – getting another shot at dealing JT Marvelous’ first loss.

Meanwhile, Bagunas scored 19 of his season-high 21 points from attacks, but it wasn’t enough as Oita Miyoshi sank down to eighth place following their four-set loss to Wardogs Nagoya at the Toyoda Gosei Memorial Gymnasium Entrio at Inazawa City in Aichi.

Nagoya rose to third place with a 2-1 slate in the men’s division.

Marck Espejo and FC Tokyo are currently clashing with the JTEKT Stings at press time for their first win of the season.   IVAN SUING