The NU Bulldogs leaned on veterans Buds Buddin and Leo Ordiales to seal their spot in the Final Four as they defeated the Adamson Soaring Falcons, 23-25, 25-20, 21-25, 25-21, 15-8, in the UAAP Season 88 Men’s Volleyball Tournament at the Quadricentennial Pavilion.
NU Overcomes Tough Adamson Stand
In the fifth set, the Bulldogs trailed by two, 6-8, before sparking an unanswered 9-0 run, highlighted by three points from Ordiales, to secure their ninth win of the season. With the loss, the Soaring Falcons were officially eliminated from Final Four contention.
“Lagi namang sinasabi ni Coach Dante Alinsunurin na sumunod lang sa sistema, sa kung anong ginagawa namin sa ensayo, lalo na almost mga senior players na rin ’yung nasa team namin,” said Bulldogs assistant coach Jessie Lopez.
“Paalala lang sa kanila, pagdating sa pressure game, dapat mauna kami.”
Ordiales, Buddin Combine for 52
Ordiales finished with 26 points built on 20 attacks and 6 blocks, while Buddin matched his output with 26 points on 19 attacks, 4 blocks, and 3 service aces, along with 14 excellent receptions. Jade Disquitado added 11 points and 18 excellent receptions.
Greg Ancheta dished out 21 excellent sets, while Jimwell Gapultos recorded 12 excellent receptions and 7 excellent digs.
For Adamson, Richard Besorio led the way with 17 points built on 14 attacks and 3 blocks, along with 15 excellent receptions, while Leo Coguimbal added 13 points.
The Bulldogs will next face the already-eliminated UE Red Warriors on Sunday, April 12, at 9:00 a.m. at the Quadricentennial Pavilion. Meanwhile, the Soaring Falcons will take on the UST Golden Spikers on Saturday, April 11, at 3:00 p.m. at the Filoil Centre.
