Converted open hitter Pao Pablico was virtually unstoppable as he keyed the Adamson University Soaring Falcons to their first win of UAAP Season 80, upending the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons, 22-25, 26-24, 25-16, 25-19, at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
Pablico tallied a career-high 23 points off 21 attacks a block and an ace. The Hospitality Management major was relieved to finally notch their breakthrough win after a tough stretch of opening matches.
“Masaya po na nakapanalo na din kami. Ang hirap din po talaga noong mga unang laban namin, pero nakaka-adjust naman na po kami,” said Pablico.
“Ginagawa ko lang po ‘yung kailangan ng team sa akin. Iniisip ko lang po na kailangan ko patayin ‘yung bola kapag binigay sa akin,” he added.
Pablico was only one of five of Falcons in double-digits. Leo Mirada added 15 points, while middle blocker Royce Bello managed 12.
Wendel Miguel led the Maroons with 16 markers while Mark Millete managed 14 points.
Adamson (1-2) next face the University of Santo Tomas Tiger Spikers (2-1) on Sunday at the FilOil Flying V Centre. UP (1-2) take on the undefeated Far Eastern University Tamaraws (3-0) on Saturday, also at the Arena in San Juan.
The Scores
AdU (3) – Pablico 23, Miranda 15, Bello 12, Jimenez 10, Yude 10, Alvarez 8, Labang 0, Nuguid 0, Melgar (L)
UP (1) – Miguel 16, Millete 14, San Pedro 12, Castillo 7, San Pascual 7, Gohoc 2, Acuna 0, Consuelo 0, Nasol (L)
