Having already clinched a Final Four spot, the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles continued to dominate the Premier Volleyball League Collegiate Conference, sweeping the De La Salle University Green Spikers, 25-15, 25-20, 25-22, at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
The defending champion Blue Eagles, while parading a new starting six, have swept all five of their matches this conference.
“Siguro, it doesn’t matter na nakaka-straight sets kami,” said Ateneo head coach Oliver Almadro. “What’s important is the way we play and that we keep improving. My players naman have been responding well sa mga challenges ng season na ito. I’m very happy, siyempre, about out record.”
Three-time PVL MVP Marck Espejo led all scorers with 16 points built on 13 attacks, two blocks, and an ace. Third year middle blocker Gian Glorioso added 11 markers.
The Blue Eagles were deadly not only on offense, but also on defense. They scored on 10 blocks and excellently received 60 percent of La Salle’s serves, which allowed them to stay ahead for most of the match.
Ateneo ends their elimination round campaign on September 30 when they face perennial Finals opponents National U Bulldogs (3-2) at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
Open hitter Raymark Woo led the Green Spikers with eight points while diminutige opposite spiker Cris Dumago added seven.
The Green Spikers (3-3) face a must-win situation on September 27 when they take on the UP Maroons (1-4).
The Scores
ADMU (3) – Espejo 16, Glorioso 11, Baysa 9, Njigha 6, Polvorosa 6, Rivera 5, Medalla 1, Magadia 0, Tan 0, Trinidad 0, Sumanguid (L)
DLSU (0) – Woo 8, Onia 8, Dumago 7, Delos Reyes 6, Jose 3, Bacon 1, Maravilla 1, Marco 1, Reyes 1, Asia 0, Dimayuga 0, Movido (L)
