By ADRIAN STEWART CO
Negrense Leo Ordiales delivered another dominant performance as the National University (NU) Bulldogs completed a historic six-peat in the UAAP Season 88 men’s volleyball tournament after sweeping the Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws, 26-24, 25-22, 25-22, in Game 2 of the finals at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday, May 9.
Ordiales starred for the Bulldogs with 24 points, built on 23 attacks, as NU secured its eighth overall men’s volleyball championship before 11,526 fans.
The opposite hitter took over late in the third set, scoring four consecutive points to turn a tight 18-16 lead into a commanding advantage that pushed the Bulldogs closer to another crown.
NU eventually sealed the victory after middle blocker Obed Mukaba scored on a quick attack to complete the straight-set win in one hour and 28 minutes.
“Bonus na lang ‘yung award kasi ang goal talaga namin ay ‘yung six-peat eh,” said Ordiales, who also earned the finals’ Most Valuable Player honors.
Ordiales sustained his strong play throughout the series after erupting for 22 points in NU’s four-set victory in Game 1.
Despite an inconsistent elimination round campaign that saw the Bulldogs finish second with a 10-4 record, NU regained its form in the playoffs and won three straight matches to extend its dynasty dating back to Season 80.
Head coach Dante Alinsunurin admitted the team faced several challenges before completing another championship run.
“Sobrang happy talaga sa ginusto namin dahil nakuha namin ‘yung six-peat. Hindi namin namalayan na makukuha namin ito kasi first round at second round talaga, nag-struggle kami pagdating sa eliminations,” Alinsunurin said.
Jade Disquitado backed Ordiales with 13 points, 15 excellent receptions and five digs, while Michaelo Buddin added eight points and 17 receptions.
Team captain Peng Taguibolos contributed seven points anchored on five blocks, while Mukaba finished with six points, including the championship-clinching hit.
FEU settled for runner-up honors for the second straight season despite entering the finals as the top seed.
Mikko Espartero led the Tamaraws with 17 points, while Amet Bituin chipped in 10.
Dryx Saavedra was limited to eight points as FEU dropped all three of its matches against NU this season./ASC, WDJ