Mandaue, Talisay reach finals in GUV Cup volleyball tourney

CEBU, Philippines - Mandaue and Talisay went through different routes before fending off their respective rivals to advance into the final round in the men's division of the 6th Governor Gwen Garcia Unity Volleyball (GUV) Cup yesterday at the Cebu International Convention Center (CICC).

Mandaue overpowered Liloan in three sets, while Talisay shrugged off a sluggish start to tame Minglanilla in four sets.

Liloan, led RP Team member Jonrey Sasing, got off to a rousing start with impressive attacks from Jade Becaldo, Jackie Yrog-irog and Ronald Melencion.

Mandaue, however, rallied back with savvy to overtake the Liloanons and eventually won the set via 25-23 thriller.

In the second canto, the Mandauehanons surprised Liloan with explosive plays from Edward Ybañez, Jesriel Pino, Roderick Arenasa, Edward Carlo Tecson and last year’s MVP Ramil Espinosa.

Liloan tried to catch up but Mandaue again prevailed, 25-23, to post a commanding 2-0 advantage.

Seemingly discouraged by the two consecutive setbacks, the Liloanons were no longer in their proper set plays, allowing Mandaue to wrap up the match in convincing fashion, 25-17.

Talisay, on the other hand, fell to Minglanilla in the first set, 25-27, but swept the next three frames with authority, 25-16, 25-15, 25-17 to move one step away from fulfilling their championship dream.

Among those who figured prominently in Talisay's triumph were RP Team member Rhovel Verayo, Norvie Labuga, Kennith Bensig, Kevin Casia and Ronald Acojedo.

In the distaff side, the Mandaue belles booked a championship ticket after terminating Liloan in four sets, 25-21, 25-14, 18-25, 25-19 behind the efforts of former RP Youth member Genie Sabas, RP Team member Jusabelle Brillo, Erika Camille Verano, Danika Yolanda Gendrauli, Lovena Amor Pepito, Rachel Singson and Kennette.

Aside from customized trophies and medals, the champions in the biggest and grandest volleyball event in the country will receive P100,000, while the runners-up will get P50,000.   (FREEMAN NEWS)