National University continued its unbeaten run in the UAAP Season 85 Men’s Volleyball tournament after winning against University of the Philippines in a hard-fought five-setter.
The Bulldogs were the overwhelming favorites going into the match. They had never lost a match for 21 straight, including three in the current season. The Fighting Maroons, on the other hand, were yet to win a match, having lost their first three games.
Despite the apparent gulf in form between the two teams, the match was a closely contested affair, with the defending champions being pushed to the brink by the underdogs.
The Bulldogs eventually prevailed in the end, winning the match 25-16, 21-25, 26-24, 23-25, 15-12.
For head coach Dante Alinsunurin, the close shave was a wake-up call for his team, and they should take it as a learning experience.
“Ang pwede lang talaga naming matutunan sa sitwasyon na ‘yon, hindi na dapat kami mapunta sa sitwasyon na maghahabol kami o susuwertehin yung kalaban namin,” the erstwhile national team mentor said. “Basta ang importante, magtuluy-tuloy lang kami sa disiplina namin sa loob ng court. Kasi may mga sets talaga na sobrang hirap na hirap kaming maka-puntos kasi ‘pag nakukuha nila yung momentum.
“Buti na lang ‘nung bandang huli nagdeliver pa rin. Ginusto pa rin naming manalo.”
The Bulldogs were led by Nico Almendras, one of the team’s seniors, who finished with an impressive 21 points on 18 attacks. He also contributed two blocks and a service ace and was a force to be reckoned with on the floor, making nine digs and 10 excellent receptions.
Almendras showed the will to win and played a crucial role in turning the tide of the match during the third set, where he scored four straight points.
Despite his excellent performance, Almendras was humble and admitted that the near-upset had shaken his team and reminded them to continue working hard.
“Siguro, sabi nga ni coach, hindi pwedeng magpabaya. May humahabol at may humahabol sa ‘min. Kaya ‘yun, siguro ‘pag dating sa ensayo, sa ‘ming mga seniors, tutulungan din namin ‘yung mga bata kung ano ‘yung dapat gawin. Mag-ensayo pa rin kami nang mabuti,” he said.
“Yun nga hindi kami pwedeng magpabaya.”
The Bulldogs’ victory showcased the importance of discipline and hard work in achieving success. Despite being the favorites, the team did not take the match for granted and gave their all on the court.
The close shave was a reminder that even the best teams can be pushed to the limit, and it is vital to remain disciplined and focused on the goal.
