MANILA – National University Bulldogs overpowered De La Salle University Green Spikers, 25-22, 25-22, 25-19, in the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Volleyball Tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Bacolodnon Leo Ordiales made an immediate impact in his UAAP debut, scoring nine points and recording three excellent digs, as the Bulldogs kicked off their five-peat bid on a winning note.
Leo Aringo led the charge with 20 points on 19 attacks and one block while adding 15 excellent receptions, while Michaelo Buddin contributed 18 points, built on 17-of-31 kills and one block, along with 13 excellent digs for NU.
Despite the departures of key players Nico Almendras and Joshua Retamar, the Bulldogs remained a dominant force as they took down the Green Spikers in straight sets.
“Thankful ako sa naging resulta ng panalo namin kasi lahat ng gusto namin mangyari sa loob ng court, nagawa namin,” said Bulldogs head coach Dante Alinsunurin after the game.
“‘Yung mga adjustment na pwede namin gawin, naka-adjust agad kami. Sobrang thankful din ako sa performance ng players ko kasi team effort talaga. Sana magtuloy-tuloy ito,” he added.
Yoyong Mendoza was the lone Green Spiker to reach double digits, finishing with 10 points, while Noel Kampton added nine points and nine excellent receptions.
Meanwhile, Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles recovered from a third set stumble to deliver a 25-17, 25-19, 22-25, 25-23 victory over Adamson University Falcons.
Kennedy Batas poured in 24 points built on 17 attacks, five blocks, and two aces, while Amil Pacinio tallied 18 points with 14 attacks as they gave head coach Vince Mangulabnan a winning debut for the Blue Eagles.
Negrense Jian Matthew Salarzon scored 11 points, Jett Gopio chipped in 10 points with four blocks, while Lorenzo Gutierrez shined in his UAAP debut with 19 excellent sets to go along with five points for Ateneo./PN
