Ateneo de Manila University leaned on its defense to complete a quick work of San Sebastian College-Recoletos, 25-17, 25-20, 25-17, to remain unscathed in the 2022 V-League Men’s Collegiate Challenge, Friday morning at the Paco Arena Sports and Events Center in Manila.
The Blue Eagles, thus, took the provisional solo lead at 2-0, keeping the Golden Stags winless at 0-2.
It was a balanced effort from Ateneo with Amil Pacinio leading the way with 15 points off 10 attacks including the match-clinching hit, three service aces, and two blocks. Meanwhile, Kennedy Batas also added 11 markers, 10 coming from attacks.
“I’m happy that we somehow minimized our errors coming from the past game. We had so many errors sa attacks at sa receive,” head coach Timmy Sto. Tomas said of the win. “Since naka-serve kami ng maayos, we were able to organize our blocking; medyo nahirapan yung kalaban umatake. So, nakapag-establish kami ng maayos, and since nahirapan sila, we were able to counter their attacks easily.”
Team captain and libero Lance De Castro was pivotal in Ateneo’s transition as his 13 excellent receptions and four excellent digs made it easier for setter James Licauco to orchestrate their offense.
Kyle Villamor lifted San Sebastian with 11 points on nine attacks, one block, and one ace, while opposite hitter Joshua Espenida was limited to just four markers, all from spikes.
The Blue Eagles will take on University of the Philippines on October 30 at 3 PM next while the Stags will face University of Perpetual Help System DALTA on Sunday at 10 a.m. still at the Paco Arena.
