MANILA – National University Bulldogs-Philippines clinched the 19th ASEAN University Games men’s volleyball gold after a 27-25, 25-21, 22-25, 25-20 victory over Thailand in Naypyitaw, Myanmar.
The Philippines drew strength from veterans Francis Saura, Bryan Bagunas and Ricky Marcos in unseating Thailand, which the Bulldogs also beat in the elimination round 30-28, 25-23, 25-19.
The win on Friday was a huge leap for the Philippine team, which comprised the reigning UAAP men’s volleyball champions, after the bronze medal finish of Ateneo Blue Eagles spikers two years ago.
Saura came up with a crucial quick hit for the Philippines in the opening set that broke the 25-all deadlock. Bagunas, meanwhile, took over in the second set for the Philippines to surge with 2-0 set wins.
There was no sweep for the Philippines, however, with the Thais putting up a tough defense on Bagunas and coming up with consecutive points in the third set to pull one set back.
But the Philippines – mentored by Dante Alinsunurin – was able to regroup in the fourth frame behind Bagunas’ solid attack, Saura’s net defense and Marcos’ floor defense to take the Thais down.
On their way to the final round the Philippines eliminated Indonesia 25-14, 25-23, 25-13 on Thursday, while Thailand achieved an impressive victory over Myanmar 25-19, 25-20, 25-17./PN
