Air Force retains national volley title

MANILA, Philippines - Reigning champion Air Force upstaged University of Perpetual Help, 25-18, 25-19, 34-32, yesterday and retained the title in 2011 National Volleyball Open Championship at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

The Air Force men, who blanked Far Eastern U in the semifinals, drew two important kills in the crucial third set from Rhovyl Verayo to shatter a 32-all tiebreak score and capture the men’s crown of the event organized by the Philippine Volleyball Federation.

“Perpetual doesn’t want to give up and keeps fighting although we have the wide advantage each set,” said Air Force mentor Jasper Jimenez. “But my players are so determined to keep the title.”

NCAA champion Perpetual, under head coach Sammy Acaylar, entered the finals after upsetting Agot in the semis of the event backed by Mikasa, Philippine Olympic Committee, Sonak Trading and Summit Water.

FEU took third place honors in the men’s side due to default after team Agot failed to come up on time.

In the women’s side, the Philippine team headed by Rachelle Ann Daquis, claimed the third place honor with a 25-22, 25-21, 25-22 win over Air Force in the tournament supported by City Garden, PSC, Pagcor, Shakey’s, Nestea, Senator Francis Pangilinan and Waste Management Inc.