By ADRIAN STEWART CO

The Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles regained their footing in the UAAP Season 88 men’s volleyball tournament, turning back the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons, 21-25, 25-23, 25-22, 25-18, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

After conceding the opening set, the UP Blue Eagles responded with sharper execution on both ends, using timely service runs and improved floor defense to wrest control of the match and secure their first win of the season.

The victory lifted Ateneo to a 1-1 record, putting them level with UP in the early standings.

Jian Salarzon emerged as the driving force for Ateneo, finishing with 19 points highlighted by steady attacks that kept the Fighting Maroons on the defensive.

His consistent scoring proved crucial as the Blue Eagles gained momentum in the middle sets and maintained their advantage down the stretch.

Reigning Most Valuable Player Kennedy Batas also made his presence felt despite still managing a knee injury. He delivered 12 points, including key conversions that helped Ateneo gain separation in the tightly contested third frame.

Louie Pacinio supported the effort with 13 points, while Aimar Okeke added 11 markers and contributed significantly on reception to help stabilize Ateneo’s backline.

“We’re proud of how the players stayed disciplined and trusted the system,” Ateneo assistant coach Tommy Rivera said.

“We had some issues early, but the adjustments we prepared for showed during the match,” he added.

UP, which dropped to 1-1, leaned on Nigerian hitter Olayemi Raheem, who poured in a game-high 30 points for the second consecutive outing.

Tommy Castrodes added 12 points, but the Fighting Maroons were unable to sustain their strong start as Ateneo tightened its grip on the match./ASC, WDJ