University of Perpetual Help System DALTA displayed a strong finish to shatter any hopes San Beda U had fostered during a determined third-set effort, securing a 25-14, 25-17, 25-22 victory and seizing early control in men’s play of the V-League Collegiate Challenge at the Paco Arena in Manila yesterday.
Holding onto a slim 16-15 lead in the third set, the Altas orchestrated a sequence of four consecutive points, fueled by back-to-back kills from Jeff Marapoc and Kobe Tabuga, effectively thwarting the Red Spikers’ aspirations.
This victory followed their hard-earned 29-27, 26-24, 25-19 win over the Emilio Aguinaldo College in the tournament’s inauguration last Wednesday, organized by Sports Vision.
“I’m happy we got the win because we prepared for this. Happy ako na kahit wala kaming Louie Ramirez, we’re playing as solid team,” said Perpetual Help head coach Sammy Acaylar.
Playmaker JC Enarciso once again led the Altas with 12 excellent sets and contributed five points, including two aces. Marapoc tallied 13 points, all stemming from kills, while Tabuga added nine markers, consisting of seven spikes and two aces.
Kevin Montemayor scored nine points, all from kills, and Justine Santos and Mohammad Tahilluddin each added six points for San Beda. Unfortunately, the team’s efforts were dampened by the injury-induced absence of Axel Book, who suffered an awkward landing in the second set.
In an earlier match, De La Salle University launched its campaign in the league, supported by Bola.TV, Beyond Active Wear, ASICS, and Mikasa, with a come-from-behind victory against the University of Santo Tomas, with scores of 26-28, 25-18, 28-26, 25-21.
Prized recruit Uriel Mendoza emerged from the bench to provide three consecutive kills, sealing the victory for the Green Spikers.
“Gaya nga ng sinabi ko sa kanila kanina, kung ang tiwala na binigay sa kanila ng mga coaches, Yun sana yung mailabas nila,” said La Salle mentor Jose Roque.
Captain JM Ronquillo steered De La Salle to victory with 27 points, achieved through 23 attacks and four blocks, while middle blocker JJ Rodriguez contributed 12 markers, coming off the bench.
Rainier Flor led UST with 13 points, while GBoy De Vega added 10 markers in limited play. UAAP Season 85 MVP Josh Ybañez participated in just two sets and finished with seven points.
