The Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals disposed of the Lyceum of the Philippines University Pirates, 25-20, 25-18, 20-25, 25-19, and took their fourth win of the season, Wednesday late morning at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
With San Beda College taking their sixth win the previous day, and with the Mapua University or College of Saint Benilde due to clinch their sixth victory, the Generals were eliminated from Final Four contention.
Last year’s Rookie of the Year Joshua Mina said that the situation helped them play lightly. He said, “Wala na po kaming iniisip na pressure. Sinabi lang po sa ‘min ni coach na pilitin naming manalo ng manalo para tumaas ranking namin.”
Mina finished with 24 points off 21 attacks and three blocks to lead the troop. However, it was Paulo Lim firing from all sides that brought the win. The middle hitter registered 14 points, two blocks, and an ace.
The Generals gained control of all the sets played, but the Pirates were able to mount a comeback in the third set to extend the match.
Nonetheless, the composure EAC gained throughout the season showed in the fourth set. Despite losing a 20-14 advantage off back-to-back blocks from captain Cedrix Rasing, the Generals slowly reached match point, before setter Mark Castellano ended the contest with a no-touch ace.
Jhonel Badua ended with 13 points to pace Lyceum.
The EAC (5-3) will face the San Beda College (6-2) for their last assignment for the season on Friday. Meanwhile, Lyceum (2-6) will battle with the Jose Rizal University (0-7) on the final day of eliminations, next Tuesday.
The Scores:
EAC 3 – Mina 24, Lim 17, Lumbad 10, Rasing 7, Panoy 3, Castalleno 2, Ilano 2, Guinto 0, Magadan L, Bagdoc L.
LPU 1 – Badua 13, Presnede 12, Ilano 6, Saporna 5, Lajara 4, Samonte 3, Uy Corral 2, Arlanza 0, Espiritu 0, Rubio L, Estranero L.
