Madz Gampong of Savouge in action against Alpha Insurance in the 2025 Spikers' Turf Open Conference, March 14, 2025 at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan. PVL Media
MANILA -- Savouge punched its ticket to the semifinals of the 2025 Spikers' Turf Open Conference after sweeping Alpha Insurance, 25-12, 25-21, 25-21, Friday at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
After cruising in the first set, the Spin Doctors had to dig deep in the next two to overcome the Protectors' gritty stand. Savouge proved to have enough firepower, and wrapped up the match in just 77 minutes.
The Spin Doctors, now at 5-3, joined Criss Cross and Cignal in the semis of the tournament.
"This is the mindset we've been working on – fighting until the end. I told them to let go of our last game against Cignal because we did our best. Today, they weren’t aware that we had already secured a semifinal spot because I didn’t want them to think about it. I just wanted them to play and finish Round 2 strong. The result turned out well, and I’m happy it worked out," Savouge coach Sydney Calderon said in Filipino.
After struggling to close out sets in their loss to the HD Spikers last Wednesday, the Spin Doctors displayed better poise this time around.
READ: Cignal outlasts Savouge in 5-set marathon
They broke away from an 18-all deadlock in the third set by winning seven of the last ten rallies, denying Alpha Insurance a chance to extend the match.
Mark Calado led all scorers with 15 points and contributed seven excellent receptions, while Madz Gampong added 13 points and made seven digs. Shawie Caritativo showcased his all-around skills, finishing with 10 points, 16 excellent receptions, and five digs.
"You can see the improvement in Calado and Gampong’s receiving and defense. The team is really coming together, and we are more than ready for the semifinals," added Calderon.
Meanwhile, Alpha Insurance fell to 2-6 but remained in solo fourth place. Vince Nadera once again led Alpha Insurance with 14 points and five digs, while JJ Javelona chipped in seven points. The Protectors will continue their semifinal push against the VNS-Laticrete Griffins in a crucial matchup tomorrow.