MRT Negros squandered a two-set lead before it survived Sabong Internatinal Spikers (SIS) 25-22, 25-16, 21-25, 21-25, 15-12, Monday at the start of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) Champions League for Men at the Aquamarine Recreational Center in Lipa City, Batangas.
Jian Matthew Salarzon came off the bench in the deciding fifth frame to steer the Negros to the winning column.
Salarzon stepped up in the defensive with five blocks to finish with 18 points while skipper Christian Marcelino fired 14 kills for 16 points.
Jet Nonoy blasted 11 attacks for 12 points while Leo Ordiales contributed 11 points.
SIS torched the service area with 10 aces but MRT Negros was quick to adjust their game.
The Negros spikers posted more attacks, 51-46, and had more blocks, 13-12.
Four players scored in double figures for SIS but their efforts went futile.
Charles Absin had 15 points, Mark Joseph Rocamora finished with 14 points, and Jelord Talisayan scored 12 points in four sets.