De Guzman Went All Out, Led Team Rajah Over Team Lakan in Clash of Heroes


Johnvic de Guzman proved that he is worthy to be the captain of the national team as he led Blue Rajah to a thrilling five-set victory against Red Lakan in Monday night's Clash of Heroes event at FilOil Flying V Centre in San Juan.

The national men’s volleyball pool members fought to a five-setter match that looked more like a do-or-die playoffs than an exhibition game. All the members went all out and bring their A-game to the event.

"I told my players to play their best, their places in the national team is at stake"  said Men's national team coach Sammy Acaylar. "Sabi ko lang sa kanila, walang relax, walang bigayan. They have to give their best in this Clash of Heroes."

NCAA MVP De Guzman, delivered 19 points to lift the Philippines-Blue to a 25-27, 25-23, 25-19, 18-25 and 15-9 triumph over the PH-Red led by Bryan Bagunas who showcase his skills with 24-point performance.

De Guzman teamed up with the veteran player Ran Ran Abdilla who produced 15 big points in the match. Also to add in the scoreboard was Dave Cabaron who chipped in 13 points, four of it came from service aces.

Coach Acaylar said that right now, he has 10 players running in his mind who will be included for the 18-man national team. The one player that surely has a spot in the line-up was De Guzman who was named captain in the national team.

When Coach Acaylar was asked about the player who never showed up, like the Bonjomar Castel, Peter Torres and Ateneo phenom Marck Espejo, he  said that they are no longer included in the pool.

“My patience for them ran out,” said Acaylar with frustration in his tone. “It’s obvious that they are not committed and can’t give time to the national team.”

From the 24 players that showed up on Clash of Heroes, 18 will be chosen to be part of the national team training pool. The final selection will be announced by next week, according to coach Acaylar.

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