The Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers closed their season with their second consecutive win, subduing the Lyceum of the Philippines University Pirates, 25-20, 26-24, 25-27, 25-21, Tuesday morning at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
Team captain Patrick Rabaja paced the Bombers with 22 points off a team-leading 18 attacks and two serves, along with a block. Hernan Salazar and Wenjo Lahaylahay registered 17 and 12 markers, respectively.
The Mandaluyong-based team overhauled a 5-11 deficit on blocks with a huge 59-41 lead on attacks and a slight edge on serves, 6-3.
For JRU head coach Ryan Dela Paz, it was a good feeling, closing out the year with wins after going 0-7. “Masaya. Kumbaga, in-all out na namin. Kaya ano man maging resulta, [OK]. Sabi ko isa-puso na lang.”
With their core set to remain intact for next year, the long-time mentor hopes that his wards build on the experience.
“Siguro ‘yung dedication namin sa team,” Dela Paz commented on what they want to continue. “Sabi ko, kung gusto Milan maiwan sa team, all out dapat.”
Jhonel Badua led the Pirates with 26 points.
Despite figuring out at a triple-tie at 2-7, JRU finish in seventh place due to superior match points won. Lyceum end in 9th, while San Sebastian settle for eighth.
The Scores:
JRU 3 – Rabaja 22, Salazar 17, Lahaylahay 12, Sulivas 9, Francisco 4, Soriano 4, Cebrero 2, Cruz 0, Mecaller 0, Flor L, Defensor L.
LPU 1 – Badua 26, Presnede 10, Ilano 7, Uy Corral 7, Samonte 3, Saporna 2, Lajara 0, Espiritu 0, Rubio L.
