Down two sets to one, the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons used solid defense and serving to come back and quell the University of Santo Tomas Tiger Spikers, 25-23, 20-25, 20-25, 25-16, 15-8, for their third win in the UAAP Season 79 Men’s Volleyball tournament, Sunday morning at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
-After winning a tight first set duel, errors and bad reception plagued the Maroons in the following two sets. UST. who were then allowed to set their block and transition opportunities, capitalized and handily raced to a 2-1 set lead.
“Puwedeng sabihin na nag-relax kami. Pero nasa pag-excute din kami nagkulang talaga. Marami kaming crucial point na pinamigay kaya nakawala din ‘yung UST,” reflected UP head coach Rod Palmero.
The fourth frame saw UP dominate early, running plays to the wingers effectively, especially on the counter attack. The Maroon Spikers opened a 17-11 lead, opening the door to a decider. The Tiger Spikers hung on early in the fifth set, but a slew of their errors and UP’s crucial blocks buoyed the Maroons to an 11-8 lead. UST managed just one more point as UP cruised to the win.
“Masaya pa din kasi nanalo kami. Magandang makita sa team na nakakapag-respond sila nang ganoon kapag down sila. Magtuloy-tuloy lang sana ito para sa amin,” Palmero added.
Senior open hitters Alfred Valbuena and Wendel Miguel towed the Maroons, scoring 22 and 21 points, respectively. Both were solid on reception, combining for 33 excellent receptions on 53 attempts.
The Maroons (3-1) next face the defending champs Ateneo De Manila University Blue Eagles (4-0) on February 26 at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
Sophomore open hitter Manuel Medina led the Tigers with 16 points while young middle blocker Jayvee Sumagaysay added 11.
UST (2-2) take on the struggling Adamson University Falcons (0-4) on Saturday also at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
The Scores
UP (3) – Valbuena 22, Miguel 21, Millete 17, Castillo 8, San Pascual 6, San Pedro 4, Trinidad 1, Acuna 0, Consuelo 0, Madrigalejos 0, Luna (L), Nasol (L)
UST (2) – Medina 16, Sumagaysay 11, Bautista 9, Carodan 9, Jose 8, Millado 7, Tajanlangit 5, Buro 0, Samonte 0, Tajanlangit J. (L)
