Ateneo de Manila University-Fudgee Barr bucked an error-plagued game, still downing Don Pacundo-DLSU Dasmariñas in straight sets, 25-19, 25-18, 25-20, for a winning start in the 2023 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference Pool A at the Paco Arena in Manila, Friday.
Just like in the first two sets, the Blue Eagles pulled away in the middle of the third frame as Nigerian spiker Aimar Okeke served steady while Jeric Sendon and Jian Salarzon provided the hits to turn a close 15-12 lead to a 20-12 advantage.
“I’m very happy that we were able to get the win. We had many lapses, we had many errors but hopefully we can address that as the tournament goes on,” said head coach Timmy Sto. Tomas.
Okeke, a 6-foot-4 outside spiker, had a debut to remember with 11 points built on nine attacks to go with six digs and six excellent receptions.
Salarzon, who only played in the last two periods, still managed to get eight points while Amil Pacinio produced six points on limited minutes as well.
Both sides committed a lot of errors in the 84-minute match with the Patriots tallying 34 errors while the Blue Eagles had 23 of their own.
Up next for Ateneo will be heavyweight Sta. Elena-National University on Nov. 5.
Paul Malaiba, who suited up for D’Navigators last conference, paced DLSU-D with 12 points he laced with 10 excellent receptions. Popoy Alabin chimed in 10 points as well.
Meanwhile, the Patriots get their second chance for a win on Oct. 27 against Iloilo
