By ADRIAN STEWART CO
The National University (NU) Bulldogs moved within reach of a sixth straight title after dispatching the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Golden Spikers, 25-21, 30-28, 25-19, to secure a finals berth in the UAAP Season 88 men’s volleyball tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday, April 29.
The Bulldogs arranged a championship showdown with top-seeded Far Eastern University (FEU), renewing a rivalry that saw NU capture last season’s crown at FEU’s expense.
It also marked NU’s 11th consecutive finals’ appearance dating back to 2013.
While Michaelo Buddin led the scoring, Negrense Leo Ordiales provided crucial support, delivering nine points highlighted by timely hits in the decisive third set where NU pulled away for good.
Ordiales, along with Jade Disquitado and Peng Taguibolos, helped anchor the finishing run that shut the door on UST.
“Sobrang thankful ako sa players ko na pumunta sila dito na ang mindset nila ay kunin ‘yung game … Sobrang happy sa naging performance although, syempre ‘yung naging problema rin ng UST, mas marami silang unforced errors kaya nakabwelo kami,” head coach Dante Alinsunurin said.
NU leaned on UST’s miscues, taking advantage of 27 unforced errors to dictate the pace, particularly in the tightly contested second set.
UST threatened to level the match after reaching set point, 28-27, behind Vryvin Catinsag.
However, a service error by Josh Ybañez allowed NU to regain footing.
Obed Mukaba then delivered a quick attack to put the Bulldogs ahead before a net touch violation by UST handed NU a two-set advantage.
With momentum firmly on their side, the Bulldogs dominated the third frame.
Ordiales played a key role during the closing stretch, converting attacks that kept UST at bay and ensured NU’s advance.
Buddin finished with 19 points and was solid on reception, while Disquitado contributed 11 points.
Mukaba added seven markers, Taguibolos had six, and setter Greg Ancheta tallied 23 excellent sets. Jimwell Gapultos anchored the floor defense.
NU heads into the finals as the only team to have beaten FEU this season and holds a clean record against the Tamaraws in their final encounters since Season 75.
On the other hand, Gboy de Vega led UST with 14 points, while Josh Ybañez was limited to nine markers on an off-attacking night.
The Golden Spikers settled for third place, with veteran setter Joshua Avila playing his final game for the team./ASC, WDJ