By ADRIAN STEWART CO

The Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles cruised to a rousing 25-16, 25-18, 25-21 victory over the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons in the second round of the UAAP Season 87 men’s volleyball tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Negrense Jian Matthew Salarzon finished with 10 points, on eight attacks, one block and a service ace, to go with nine excellent receptions and two excellent digs as the Blue Eagles improved to a 5-3 win-loss slate.

Amil Pacinio led the way with 17 points, on 12-of-19 attacks, three service aces and two blocks, along with four excellent digs.

Kennedy Batas chipped in 14 points on 13 attacks and one ace along with 10 excellent receptions for Ateneo.

“Masaya ako sa pinakita ng team kasi itong second round nag-reset na kami. Hindi siya like nung first round na wala kaming guide or any na pwedeng review-hin or kahit ‘yung ibang teams,” Blue Eagles head coach Vince Mangulabnan said after the game.

Dan Nicolas and Tommy Castrodes attempted to keep the Fighting Maroons alive in the third set, closing in within 16-18, but the Blue Eagles decided to end it in straight sets with connections from Pacinio, Salarzon and Jettlee Gopio.

Nicolas and Castrodes paced the Fighting Maroons with 10 points each, while Olayemi Raheem contributed nine points as they dropped to a 2-6 win-loss slate./ASC, WDJ