By ADRIAN STEWART CO
The National University (NU) Bulldogs overcame a tough stand by the University of the East (UE) Red Warriors for a 25-20, 23-25, 25-23, 25-15 victory in the UAAP Season 87 men’s volleyball tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Saturday, March 1.
Negrense Leo Ordiales top-scored for the Bulldogs with 18 points on 13 spikes, four blocks and one service ace as the defending champion Bulldogs moved up to a 3-1 record.
Michaelo Buddin produced 16 points, nine excellent receptions and five excellent digs, while team captain Leo Aringo had a double-double of 15 points and 24 excellent receptions for NU.
Coming off a straight-sets loss to the Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws last week, the Bulldogs struggled in the third set at 24-23 before they pulled off the set win with a quick spike from Peng Taguibolos.
The Bulldogs finally gained their momentum to dominate the Red Warriors in the fourth, 25-15, and secure their third win after one hour and 47 minutes.
“Umpisa pa lang kahit nakuha namin ‘yung first set, dama pa rin namin ‘yung nangyari nung last game. Even first practice namin after FEU, medyo mabigat,” NU head coach Dante Alinsunurin said after the game.
“Buti na lang nung fourth set, nakita ko na nakabalik na kami kasi ‘yun naman talaga ‘yung gusto naming mangyari sa loob ng court,” the former national men’s volleyball team member added.
Roy Piojo, a rookie out of Iloilo province’s Santa Barbara town, led the way for the Red Warriors (0-4) with 18 points and seven digs, while Steven Aligayon contributed 15 points.
Meanwhile, the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Golden Spikers cruised to a 25-18, 25-15, 25-23 straight-set win over the Adamson University Falcons.
Jan Julian Macam led the way with 13 points, on eight attacks, three service aces and two blocks, to go with seven excellent receptions and four excellent digs as the Golden Spikers notched their third straight win for a 3-1 record.
Alche Gupiteo added 13 markers, on eight attacks and five blocks, while Negrense JayRack dela Noche contributed 11 markers for UST, which played their third straight game without star Josh Ybañez./ASC, WDJ