Ateneo de Manila University capped its UAAP Season 86 Men’s Volleyball campaign with a rousing 25-22, 25-21, 25-17 win over Adamson University, Wednesday at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.
The Blue Eagles finished fifth place with an even 7-7 record, the same card it had last season.
And again, they fell short of the Final Four.
“Yung season namin is full of ups and downs, especially during the first round. It was an emotional rollercoaster for the whole team. So ayun, in general, sayang kasi we’re short by a win or two,” said Ateneo head coach Timmy Sto. Tomas.
“Hopefully by next year, makabawi at makapasok sa Final Four.”
The Blue Eagles opened the floodgates in a tight third frame. Ken Batas dominated in the latter part coupled with the Soaring Falcons’ errors for the victory in one hour and 23 minutes.
Jian Salarzon once again led Ateneo with 21 points, nine excellent receptions, and seven digs. Meanwhile, Batas had 12 points and eight digs.
Jettlee Gopio had eight points in his final game for the Blue Eagles as well. Amil Pacinio got four points alongside his spectacular floor defense of 17 receptions and nine digs.
Jude Aguilar had 12 points as the Soaring Falcons ended at sixth spot with a 4-10 slate.
Marc Paulino chipped in nine points while Joel Menor produced seven points for Adamson.
Aside from Gopio, Cyrus De Guzman, and James Licauco have played their final game in a Blue Eagles jersey, while Francis Casas also had his last run for the Soaring Falcons.
Ateneo captain Lance De Castro, meanwhile, is still pondering if he will return next year.
