Systema takes on IEM for men’s title

Expect a nail-biting duel when Systema Tooth and Gum Care and Instituto Estetico Manila (IEM) square off for the first men’s crown in the Shakey’s V-League Season 11 Reinforced Conference at The Arena in San Juan.

Game time is at 2:45 p.m. with both teams coming off a week-long respite. The match will be aired live on GMA News TV channel.

Far Eastern University ( FEU) and Rizal Technological University (RTU) clash at 12:45 p.m. for third spot. Both teams split their first two games.

Systema drew the first blood in their best- of-three series after a hard-earned 21-25, 23-25, 25-19, 25-23, 16-14 last Nov. 2, but IEM came back a week later to hack out a pulsating 19-25, 25-19, 13-25, 25-21, 15-13 win.

Systema Coach Arnold Laniog is counting on the defense of Rocky Honrade and Al-Frazin Abdul Wahab, but is expected to come up with a new offensive strategy against IEM.

Chris Macasaet and Angelo Espiritu are set to banner Systema’s offense, with PJ Rojas and Mark Lee expected to provide ample support.

IEM, however, has the momentum and Jeffrey Jimenez and Jason Canlas who combined for for 26 kills and six blocks in Game 2.

“Maturity will be the key,” said IEM coach Ernesto Balubar.

“More on sa mental attitude na yung labanan eh. Nakita naman yon din sa dalawang laro namin na umabot ng five sets. Huwag lang kaming bibitaw,” said Balubar. “Patibayan lang ng dibdib yan.”

The women’s competitions closed out last week with Cagayan capturing the crown against Army, and PLDT Home Telpad settling for third place.