The NU Bulldogs wasted no time returning to form, sweeping the UP Fighting Maroons, 28-26, 25-23, 25-20, in the UAAP Season 88 men’s volleyball tournament at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion on Saturday.
NU survived a tense second set after building what seemed to be a comfortable 24-18 advantage. UP mounted a late rally, trimming the deficit to 23-24 and threatening to steal the frame. However, a costly service error from Milven Francisco allowed the Bulldogs to close out the set and move within striking distance of the sweep.
NU on Cruise Control
Learning from their near collapse, the Bulldogs maintained control in the third set, preventing the Fighting Maroons from gaining momentum and sealing the straight-sets victory.
“Sa simula pa naman ng liga, masasabi naman na lahat, laban talaga, kasi sobrang intact ng lahat ng teams. Sa performance namin ngayon, sobrang thankful sa panalo namin, although may lapses pa rin kami sa ginagawa namin through offense and sa pag-receive namin,” said Bulldogs head coach Dante Alinsunurin.
Leo Ordiales paced NU with 20 points built on 13 attacks, 6 blocks, and 1 ace. Buds Buddin added 18 markers from 15 attacks, 2 service aces, and 1 block, while Jade Disquitado chipped in 10 points.
For UP, Olayemi Raheem was limited to 14 points, while Zairus Dale Pacure tallied 12 markers on 9 attacks, 2 blocks, and 1 ace. Milven Francisco Jr. contributed 10 points.
The Bulldogs aim to build on this rebound win when they face the UE Red Warriors on Wednesday, March 4, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Meanwhile, the Fighting Maroons look to regroup as they take on the undefeated FEU Tamaraws on Sunday, March 8, at the same venue.
