Ateneo de Manila University survived Adamson University in a thriller, 20-25, 25-20, 19-25, 25-23, 15-10, to stretch its win run to three games in the UAAP Season 85 men’s volleyball tournament at the SMART Araneta Coliseum, Saturday.
The Blue Eagles were just ahead by a point in the decider when they ran away with the victory.
Falcon Francis Casas first committed an attack error, before Ken Batas and Jian Salarzon went back-to-back for Ateneo followed by another error by Adamson.
Salarzon then iced the two-hour 41-minute match with a crosscourt kill.
“Itong fifth set kasi it will all boil down kung sino ang makaka-serve at makaka-receive nang maayos. Thankfully we were able to serve and we were able to receive properly that’s why we were able to get the fifth set,” said coach Timmy Sto. Tomas after the two-hour, 49-minute match.
Ateneo kept pace with De La Salle University at fourth with identical 5-4 records.
Salarzon dazzled with 22 points and 19 excellent receptions, while Amil Pacinio had 19 points and 19 receptions as well.
Batas completed the scoring trio of Ateneo with 18 points and 10 digs.
Meanwhile, Adamson continued to fly low with just one win in nine games.
Evander Novillo paced the Soaring Falcons with 22 points, while Casas and Josh Magalaman chimed in with 18 and 12 points, respectively.
Ateneo looks to keep it going on April 12 against University of the Philippines. On the other hand, Adamson eyes bounce back against defending champion National University.
Watch the UAAP Season 85 Collegiate Volleyball Tournament on the UAAP Varsity Channel (Ch. 263 HD). Available on Prepaid Loads 300 & up (valid for 30 days).
You can also catch the games live on the SMART Livestream App. Download it here.
