D’Navigators go back-to-back

MANILA, Philippines — Iloilo nailed a second straight win in a rousing start in the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) Champions League at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum Monday.

The D’Navigators, who finished No. 2 in their group last year only to exit in the quarterfinals, smashed the Philippine Air Force, 25-18, 25-21, 25-23, in only 85 minutes for the solo lead in Pool B at 2-0.

“We’re just too glad we’re up 2-0. We worked hard for this,” Iloilo coach Rizalito Delmoro said.

Delmoro’s wards include Iloilo homegrown talents, former national team players and a mixture of current collegiate standouts.

John San Andres rifled in 18 points on 15 hits, two blocks and an ace while Kyle Villamor hammered 15 points on 15 attacks for Iloilo, which also made quick work of VNS Asereht, bronze medalist last year, with a 25-20, 25-23, 25-20 win during the opener for an inside track to the semifinals with a game left in its schedule.

“If we keep doing this, we’re going to the finals,” said Delmoro.