Nico Almendras made a vow to stay calm and composed during National University’s second-round clash against University of the Philippines on Saturday.
During their first round encounter, Almendras received a yellow and red card because of unsportsmanlike conduct after their game against UP.
Upon reviewing the video footage, it was discovered that Almendras pushed Jessie Rubin during the post-game handshake.
Almendras promised that he and his teammates would not disappoint their head coach Dante Alinsunurin after their previous incident during the first round game against UP.
Almendras shared that Alinsunurin reminded them to focus on their game and avoid any unsportsmanlike conduct.
“Sabi nila coach na sana ‘di na ma-ulit ‘yung ganon,” said Almendras after their 25-14, 25-18, 23–25, 25-21 victory.
Almendras showed great composure during their second game against UP by following Alinsunurin’s orders to behave and turn back when they scored a point against UP.
“Every point, ‘wag ng humarap sa kalaban, talikod na lang at mag-celebrate as a team,” Almendras said.
With their unblemished 9-0 record in 29 games, Alinsunurin reminded his team to focus on the task at hand and not to repeat their previous mistake.
The head coach of the Choco Mucho Flying Titans said, “Bago maglaro kami kanina, ni-remind ko ulit sila na dapat focus lang sa ginagawa kung ano man ‘yung nangyari last game namin against UP. Dapat hindi na ma-ulit.
“And ‘yun nga sabi ko, ‘Kung gusto niyo mag-celebrate tumalikod na lang kayo para mas maganda ‘yung kalabasan nung ginagawa natin.'”
