The University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons started their Season 80 campaign strong, slamming the University of the East Red Warriors, 25-22, 25-15, 25-13, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
UP scorched the undermanned Red Warriors, as three Maroons delivered double-digit scoring outputs. Team captain Jerry San tallied a game-high 12 points, while Mark Millete and Wendel Miguel added 11 markers apiece.
The Fighting Maroons dominated every scoring category, piling up 32 spikes to UE’s 21 and nine aces to UE’s two, while also limiting their errors to 20 as UE surrendered 26.
“It was important that we start the season with a win,” said UP assistant coach Rald Ricafort, who is part of the team’s revamped coaching staff, along with head coach Hans Chuacuco.
“Our goal is to keep improving every game. Hopefully, we can respond well to the challenges from every team,” the former Fighting Maroon added.
Noel Alba and Geric Ortega each had seven points for UE.
The Fighting Maroons (1-0) face the De La Salle University Green Spikers (0-1) on Saturday at the FilOil Flying V Centre. The Red Warriors (0-1) take on the University of Santo Tomas Tiger Spikers (1-0) on Wednesday also at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
The Scores
UP (3) – San Pedro 12, Miguel 11, Millete 11, Baldelovar 6, San Pascual 4, Castillo 3, Gohoc 2, Consuelo 0, Madrigalejos 0, Nasol (L)
UE (0) – Alba 7, Ortega 7, Inoferio 6, Adriano 5, Patacsil 4, Imperial 1, Aljas 0, Balquidera 0, Benitez (L), Ernacio (L)
