The Ateneo Blue Eagles avenged their first-round loss to the Adamson Soaring Falcons, 25-19, 25-27, 25-22, 25-20, to notch their third straight win in the UAAP Season 88 Men’s Volleyball Tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Ateneo pulled away late in the fourth set after a tight battle. Amil Pacinio and Brian Castro helped the Blue Eagles build a 15-10 cushion off Adamson’s errors, but the Soaring Falcons clawed back to tie the frame at 19-all.
The Blue Eagles, however, finished strong, with Aimar Okeke delivering two key points in a decisive 6-1 closing run to seal the victory.
“Salamat sa kanila. Thanks to their efforts, na nag-stick lang sila doon sa game plan. Itong game plan or game guides is a collective effort talaga ito. Talagang nag-brainstorm kami at talagang lahat ng ideas ng bawat isa, kinuha namin hanggang makakuha ng perfect guide,” said Ateneo head coach Vince Mangulabnan.
Kennedy Batas Again Leads the Way for Ateneo
Reigning MVP Kennedy Batas led Ateneo with 24 points built on 21 attacks, 2 service aces, and 1 block, along with 15 excellent receptions. Pacinio added 18 points, while Jian Salarzon chipped in 11 points and 11 excellent receptions.
Enzo Gutierrez orchestrated the offense with 23 excellent sets, while Lance de Castro anchored the backline with 18 excellent receptions.
For Adamson, Leo Coguimbal dominated at the net with 15 points built on 9 blocks, 5 attacks, and 1 ace. Maruel Tan contributed 14 points, while Richard Besorio tallied 13 points and 13 excellent receptions.
Ateneo will next face defending champion NU Bulldogs on Saturday, March 28, at 1:00 p.m. at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion. Earlier that day, Adamson takes on the UE Red Warriors at 9:00 a.m.
