By ADRIAN STEWART CO

The National University (NU) Bulldogs survived a tough challenge from the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles for a 23-25, 26-24, 27-25, 29-27 victory in the UAAP Season 87 men’s volleyball tournament at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City yesterday.

Negrense Leo Ordiales top-scored for the Bulldogs with 14 points built on 13 attacks, while Peng Taguibolos broke out with 13 points built on seven attacks and a game-high six blocks.

Obed Mukaba ended the day with 10 points with four blocks, four aces and two attacks.

Jade Disquitado chipped in seven points in his Season 87 debut for the five-peat-seeking NU, now with a 2-0 win-loss slate.

Greg Ancheta steered the Bulldogs’ offense with 18 excellent sets, while Jimwell Gapultos steadily held the team’s defensive frontline with 18 excellent receptions and four digs.

With this win, NU extended its dominance over Ateneo, securing its 10th consecutive victory against the Blue Eagles — a streak dating back to their four-set triumph on April 15, 2018 in Season 80.

“Thankful ako sa naging performance namin kahit ganito. Sa akin kasi, ‘yung ginawa ng Ateneo sa amin, talagang trinabaho nila kung ano naging game plan nila,” NU head coach Dante Alinsunurin said after the game.

“Kami talaga ‘yung pinipilit na makuha ang rhythm namin. Buti na lang nung latter sets, nakuha na namin. Importante lang is kung ano ang nagiging challenges ngayon, kailangan nating matuto,” he added.

Kenneth Batas poured in 21 points (all on attacks) with 21 excellent receptions and three excellent digs in the losing effort.

Negrense Jian Salarzon chipped in 12 points as they dropped to a 1-1 record./ASC, WDJ