Ateneo de Manila University and University of Santo Tomas turned in contrasting victories to keep their momentum going in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge on Saturday at the Paco Arena Sports and Events Center.
The Blue Eagles leaned on the heroics of seniors Amil Pacinio and Jian Salarzon to survive a gritty stand from defending UAAP champion National University, 25-18, 25-23, 26-28, 25-21, for their second straight win that leveled their record at 2-2.
Pacinio spearheaded Ateneo with 20 points, including two crucial blocks against NU rookie Yuan Mendoza in the fourth set, before Salarzon capped the match with a solo rejection and three straight down-the-line kills.
Julio Yu added 11 points and five excellent receptions, while Salarzon tallied 10 overall.
Blue Eagles head coach Vince Mangulabnan praised his wards for sticking to the system despite the pressure-filled rallies.
“Ako, hoping ako na sa pinakita naman nila ngayon tsaka nung last game, mukhang sinusunod naman na nila ‘yung gameplan,” Mangulabnan said. “May times pa rin talaga na naglalaro na lang nang sarili, pero thankful ako kasi tinutulungan din nila akong mag-remind sa isa’t isa.”
(C) V-League
NU was paced by Mac Bandola’s 13 points, Jan Abanilla’s 10, and Mendoza’s seven, but the Bulldogs fell to Ateneo’s endgame composure in a one-hour, 49-minute duel.
(C) V-League
Meanwhile, UST remained spotless in the tournament after dispatching De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde in straight sets, 25-21, 25-21, 30-28, to seize the solo lead at 3-0.
GBoy De Vega took charge in the extended third frame, drilling the crucial down-the-line hit that set up match point before Dux Yambao closed the door with a denial of Paul Jordan at the net.
De Vega finished with 15 points, four digs, and 15 excellent receptions, embodying the Golden Spikers’ steadiness in clutch moments.
“Medyo naging effective naman ‘yung mga minor adjustments na pinag-ensayuhan namin the past week,” said De Vega. “We actually focused on not starting slow; mas naging aggressive kami this time. So, we were able to get this straight-sets win.”
Yambao dictated the offense with timely distribution to De Vega, JJ Macam, and the middle duo of Trevor Valera and Sean Cruz, while UST also edged Benilde in attacks (40-35) and blocks (9-7).
Benilde, making its debut, fought gallantly behind Reymark Betco’s 13 points and Rocky Motol’s 11, but UST’s cohesion proved too much in the end.
