The UST Tiger Spikers gave the NU Bulldogs their most formidable challenge in Season 85, but it wasn’t enough as they fell short in a thrilling five-set encounter, 23-25, 22-25, 25-21, 31-29, 11-15, in Game 1 of the men’s volleyball finals at the Mall of Asia Arena on Wednesday.
Facing a daunting 0-2 set deficit, the Tiger Spikers found their rhythm and showcased their offensive prowess to orchestrate a remarkable comeback to prolong the match.
UST sparked its comeback in the third set despite falling behind 7-3 early on. Four straight points capped by an NU error allowed UST to build momentum and keep the game competitive.
With NU ahead, 20-19, the Tiger Spikers went on a 6-2 blast to extend the game to a fourth set.
Showing incredible resilience, the Tiger Spikers weathered the pressure and multiple match points from NU in the fourth set, ultimately forcing a decider after a 31-29 victory.
UST was able to build a 6-4 lead in the fifth set, but an 11-5 turnaround allowed the Bulldogs to foil the Tiger Spikers’ comeback attempt.
UST’s Joshua Ybañez exploded with 28 points to lead all scorers.
Gboy de Vega and Rainier Flor scattered 19 and 12 points apiece, while Jayrack de la Noche, who was substantial for the Tiger Spikers’ runs in the latter sets, had eight points in his return following his SEA Games stint.
The NU offense was spearheaded by Michaelo Buddin and Angelo Almendras, who together contributed 46 points.
UST head coach Odjie Mamon credited the Tiger Spikers for showing heart in the five-set affair.
“No questions regarding their puso or will to win. Meron lang talagang certain aspect that we have to correct kasi out of system ‘yung nangyari kanina…and hopefully by game two ma-correct namin to have a better result.” he said after the game.
Ybanez led UST with 28 points while De Vega scored 19 points.
UST allowed NU to score 40 points off its errors.
Game 2 is scheduled for Sunday, May 14, 2 p.m., at the same venue. E.T.A.R. Lutap
