The NU Bulldogs leaned on the trio of Buds Buddin, Jade Disquitado, and Leo Ordiales to overcome the FEU Tamaraws, 21-25, 25-19, 21-25, 25-20, 15-8, in Game 1 of the Finals of the UAAP Season 88 Men’s Volleyball Tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
The Bulldogs stormed to a commanding 7-1 lead in the fifth set behind key blocks from Buddin and Peng Taguibolos, along with crucial FEU errors. Although the Tamaraws trimmed the gap to 10-7, NU quickly restored order behind Taguibolos and Disquitado before the former sealed the win with a quick attack.
Six-Peat Beckons for NU
With the victory, the Bulldogs moved one win away from completing a historic six-peat and securing their eighth championship under head coach Dante Alinsunurin.
“Lagi ko naman silang rine-remind sa ginagawa at kung nasaan sila at kung ano ang kakayahan nila,” said Alinsunurin. “As long as naglalaro kami para tumulong sa team, talagang sinasabi namin sa kanila na mag-perform sila and kung ano ‘man ‘yung nagiging experience nila sa labas, i-share nila. Through leadership na lang din talaga kaya ito ‘yung naging resulta ng game namin.”
Stars Came Out to Play
Disquitado delivered an all-around outing with 21 points, 20 excellent receptions, and 9 excellent digs, while Buddin added 20 points, 18 excellent receptions, and 7 excellent digs.
Taguibolos chipped in 12 points, while Obed Mukaba added 9. Setter Greg Ancheta orchestrated the offense with 31 excellent sets, as libero Jimwell Gapultos anchored the floor with 12 excellent receptions and 6 excellent digs.
On the other side, Dryx Saavedra led FEU with 20 points, while Mikko Espartero and Amet Bituin added 14 points apiece.
The Tamaraws now face a must-win Game 2 on Saturday, May 9, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena to force a do-or-die Game 3.
