The National University Bulldogs stayed on track for a twice-to-beat advantage, breezing past the University of the East Red Warriors, 25-16, 25-23, 25-13, at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
The Bulldogs elevated their record to 11-2 with a crucial match against the Ateneo Blue Eagles (10-2) left on their elimination round schedule on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
A win against their perennial rivals will guarantee the Bulldogs a twice-to-beat advantage. It might also palce the Blue Eagles out of the top two.
NU head coach Dante Alinsunrin emphasized his team’s desire to break a three-year title drought. This next stretch has hefty implications on their on their season.
“Crucial talaga ‘yung itong huling laban namin. Kailangan namin ‘yung twice-to-beat at matagal na din since natalo namin ‘yung Ateneo,” Alinsununrin said. “Itong laban namin sa UE, sinabi namin na kailangan ngayon pa lang pakita natin na ready tayo.”
Three Bulldogs scored in double-digits against UE with National Team stalwart Bryan Bagunas tallying 18 points and James Natividad adding 14.
Clifford Inoferio was the lone Red Warriors in double-digits with 10 markers.
UE (0-12) takes on the Ateneo Blue Eagles on Wednesday at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
The Scores
NU (3) – Bagunas 18, Natividad 14, Gampong 10, Saura 8, Malabunga 7, Dayandante 2, Mondero 2, Ancheta 0, Marcos (L)
UE (0) – Inoferio 10, Adriano 8, Aljas 6, Alba 4, Patacsil 2, Balquierda 1, Ortega 1, Benitez (L), Ernacio (L)
