AEP-Cabstars secure a bronze medal finish in the 2026 Spikers' Turf Open Conference. PVL Media Bureau
MANILA — AEP-Cabstars took down Alpha Insurance in Game 2 of the bronze medal series, 25-22, 25-21, 23-25, 25-23, to secure a podium finish in the 2026 Spikers' Turf Open Conference on Friday at the Filoil Centre in San Juan.
The Cabstars bucked a third-set lapse en route to the win, following up their 26-24, 25-23, 25-20 victory in the opener.
"Sobrang happy, kasi hindi namin in-expect na aabot kami dito sa bronze medal," said EJ Casaña, who orchestrated the AEP spiking with 39 excellent sets.
READ: Spikers' Turf: Cabstars repulse Alpha Insurance, near bronze
Jay Rack De La Noche racked up a game-high 23 points to go with seven digs, while Jared Schnake had 14 markers and 14 excellent receptions, and Mfena Gwaza made his presence felt with 12 points in the Game 2 win.
It marked the team's triumphant return to the league, which already played in the 2023 Invitational.
"Sobrang worth it ng pagkapanalo namin ngayon, kahit kakabalik lang ng Cabstars, nakapag-bronze medal agad kami," said the AEP playmaker.
Meanwhile, it was still an impressive result for Alpha Insurance, reaching the semifinals and the bronze medal series for the first time.
Their fourth-place finish marks their best placement yet, with Wesley Cajolo pacing the Alpha side with 22 points.