The NU Bulldogs regained their footing at the perfect time, outlasting the UST Golden Spikers, 25-22, 20-25, 25-23, 28-26, to clinch the second seed and the last twice-to-beat advantage in the UAAP Season 88 Men’s Volleyball Tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Coming off back-to-back losses to the La Salle Green Archers and the Golden Spikers to close the eliminations, the Bulldogs delivered when it mattered most—snapping their skid and locking in a crucial Final Four incentive.
“Siyempre, may tiwala pa rin ako sa mga players ko dahil matagal ko na silang kasama. Alam ko ‘yung kakayahan nila,” said Bulldogs head coach Dante Alinsunurin.
“Siguro nung game kanina, gusto nilang tapusin agad sa mabilis na paraan, pero sabi ko nga, hindi kailangan maging excited. Importante lang ay mag-focus kami sa gusto naming mangyari sa loob ng court.”
NU Shows Nerves of Steel to Close Out UST
The Bulldogs appeared poised to finish strong in the fourth set after building a 19-15 lead behind consecutive hits from Leo Ordiales and Buds Buddin. However, UST answered with a 5-1 run, capped by back-to-back Trevor Valera attacks, to tie the frame at 20-all.
The Golden Spikers even reached set point twice, but the Bulldogs showed championship composure down the stretch.
A costly service error from Vryvin Catinsag and a decisive block from Ordiales sealed a 4-1 finishing run, completing the four-set victory.
Leo Ordiales, Buds Buddin Lead the Way
Ordiales led NU with 22 points built on 19 attacks and 3 blocks, while Buddin added 20 points and 21 excellent receptions. Jade Disquitado chipped in 10 points.
Setter Greg Ancheta orchestrated the offense with 30 excellent sets, while Jimwell Gapultos contributed 12 excellent receptions and 8 excellent digs.
Josh Ybañez led the Golden Spikers with 20 points, 16 excellent receptions, and 8 excellent digs. Gboy de Vega added 13 points, while Sherwin Umandal and Valera chipped in 12 points apiece.
The Bulldogs will once again face the Golden Spikers on Wednesday, April 29, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. In the other playoff bracket, the FEU Tamaraws will face the Ateneo Blue Eagles, with the former holding the win-once edge.
