Aguilas sweep pool play

LIPA CITY, Philippines — Go For Gold-Air Force punched a ticket to the semifinals with a sweep of pool play following a 25-15, 28-26, 25-20 win over Basilan Steel in the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) Champions League men’s tournament at the Aquamarine Recreational Center Gym here.

Living up to expectations as the tournament’s heavy favorites, the national team players laden-Aguilas rose to the occasion and clinched the top seeding in Pool A after trouncing VNS Manileño Spikers in the opener the other day.

John Vic de Guzman and Mark Alfafara fired 17 and 13 markers, respectively, to anchor the Aguilas, who will face the No. 2 team in Pool B in the crossover semis knockout on Friday.

“We still need to work on our defense, service and reception entering the Final Four. That will set the pace for us moving forward,” said coach Dante Alinsunurin.

Earlier, Team Dasma Monarchs claimed the solo lead in Pool B after smothering MRT-Negros 25-16, 22-25, 25-20, 25-23.