Three-time defending champions Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles remained on top of the standings after nabbing their seventh straight win at the De La Salle University Green Spikers’ expense, 25-18, 19-25, 25-17, 25-17, at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
The Blue Eagles swept the season series against the Green Spikers after scoring their first win over the Taft-based program just last Saturday.
Ateneo was dominant throughout, aside from a slip up in the second set which head coach Oliver Almadro tagged as his squad’s lack of aggresiveness.
“We started slow in the second set. Kasi first set, we’re doing good then dumikit ang La Salle. Then they brought the momentum to the second set. So we started slow, we started doubtful noong second set. Towards the end naman, nakukuha nila ‘yung momentum, but it’s too late,” thought the outspoken tactician.
“So, what I said to my players, in the third set we just have to put the intensity up. And hindi pupwedeng mag-let up. Importante aggressive and intense all the way,” he added.
At this point in the season, Almadro is looking forward to seeing the Blue Eagles amp up their intensity as they gun for a fourth straight title.
“Actually, ‘yun ang kulang pa namin. Hindi ko pa nakikita ‘yung intensity from start to finish. Hindi ko pa nakikita ‘yung peak namin. So ‘yun ang hinihintay ko. We have to peak at the right time. Ngayon medyo may slow start pa, so I guess sabi ko nga kulang pa, hindi pa nagpi-peak. I’m praying for it na we will peak at the right time,” Almadro expressed.
Reigning four-time MVP Marck Espejo continued his incendiary pace, scoring 22 points to go with 20 excellent receptions and nine digs to lead Ateneo. Team captain Karl Baysa added 10 markers.
Arjay Onia led the Green Spikers with 15 points while Raymark Woo added 11.
Both squads next play on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Ateneo (7-1) takes on the skidding UST (3-5) while La Salle (3-5) faces UP (3-5).
The Scores
ADMU (3) – Espejo 22, Baysa 10, Njigha 9, Rivera 8, Glorioso 7, Polvorosa 4, Medalla 2, Tan 2, Labao 1, Morado 0, Trinidad 0, Sumanguid (L)
DLSU (1) – Onia 15, Woo 11, Dumago 10, Reyes 7, Delos Reyes 5, Jose 1, Asia 0, Dimayuga 0, Maravilla 0, Marco 0, Movido (L)
