Spikers’ Turf: AEP-Cabstars survives Abdilla’s onslaught for breakthrough win

MANILA — AEP-Cabstars survived a 37-point onslaught from Ranran Abdilla to take down the Armed Forces of the Philippines and grab their first win in the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference on Sunday.

The Cabstars stumbled in the first set but recovered to post a 26-28, 25-20, 25-17, 25-18 triumph at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.

They had taken a 24-21 advantage in the opener before Abdilla sparked AFP’s rally to snatch the set. The Cabstars dominated the rest of the way, however, completing the win in an hour and 44 minutes to improve to 1-2 in the tournament.

“Happy kami doon sa first win namin against AFP,” said AEP-Cabstars head coach Kitty Antiporta. “Sabi ko lang sa mga players na ‘yung communication namin, saka at the same time ‘yung resilience na everytime na magkakamali kami. Kasi dun sa first set medyo nawala kami.”

Leo Aringo spearheaded the Cabstars’ comeback, finishing with a team-high 23 points on 22 attacks and one block while tallying 22 excellent receptions. Dave Lardizabal contributed 15 points on 12 attacks, two blocks, and one ace, along with seven excellent digs.

John Wayne Arano orchestrated the offense with 25 excellent sets and three points.

AEP-Cabstars also held a commanding 56-33 advantage in attacks and capitalized on 33 unforced errors by AFP, making the most of its opponent’s miscues to sustain its momentum and complete the comeback victory.

The Cabstars will enjoy a nine-day break before returning to action against Alpha Insurance on November 4 at 3 p.m. at the same venue, aiming to build on their breakthrough victory and secure their second win of the conference.

Abdilla, who set the Spikers’ Turf scoring record with 47 points in 2023, delivered another sensational performance three years later, erupting for 37 points while adding 16 excellent receptions.

However, his efforts went unrewarded as the Cavaliers fell to 0-3, remaining tied with VNS-Laticrete at the bottom of the 10-team standings.

AFP will look to snap its three-game losing streak when it takes on the Griffins on Tuesday at 3 p.m. at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.