Martelli Meats celebrates against Chichi DHTSI in their 2024 Spikers' Turf Invitational Conference match, November 17, 2024 at the Ynares Sports Center in Pasig. PVL MediaMANILA -- Martelli Meats is finally on the board in the 2024 Spikers' Turf Invitational Conference after a straight-sets victory against Chichi DHTSI, Sunday at the Ynares Sports Center.
In a clash of winless teams, the Master Butchers emerged triumphant as they recorded a 25-19, 25-20, 25-19 sweep.
Renz Cruz led the charge with 10 points on six kills, two blocks and two aces to earn Player of the Game honors.
"Masaya kami, after ilang games na naghihirap kami, nakuha din namin ang panalo," he said. "Importante yung depensa kasi 'pag yung mga reception namin ay mahina, bumabawi kami sa blocking."
Martelli Meats needed to display their poise on defense late in the third set to repulse the Titans' attempt to send the match to an extension.
Chichi DHTSI had saved two match points before Martelli middle blocker Lorenz Calayag delivered the winning kill to seal the victory.
Despite the win, Martelli Meats is already out of the running for a place in the semis. Nonetheless, head coach Michael Conde is pleased that they have shaken off their winless run.
"Natural lang na naglaro lang sila, hinayaan ko lang sila na kung ano 'yung tinraining namin, 'yun 'yung gawin nila sa game," he said.
Angelo Reyes and Kenrod Umali backed Cruz with nine and eight markers each in the one-hour, 12-minute victory.
For Chichi DHTSI, it was another frustrating outing as the Titans absorbed their eighth consecutive loss. Jonathan Sorio once again led the Titans with 14 points from 10 attacks, three blocks, and an ace. Christian Alicante added 11 markers.
The Titans will wrap up their campaign, also on Nov. 27, against tournament favorites Criss Cross King Crunchers, hoping to salvage some pride in their final match.