By MARK REY MONTEJO
National University kept its dream five-peat bid alive as it outlasted Far Eastern University, 25-20, 22-25, 25-15, 18-25, 15-11, in Game 2 of the UAAP Season 87 men’s volleyball finals at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City Wednesday, May 14.
With majority of the10,000 fans cheering them on, the Bulldogs showcased great resolve as it overcame an 8-5 deficit in the fifth set to spoil the Tamaraws’ celebration and arrange a sudden death for the crown this Saturday, May 17, at the same venue.
Buds Buddin and Obed Mukaba formed a lethal 1-2 combo in the final canto, dropping timely hits to prevail in the pulse-pounding five-set clash.
Ryx Saavedra and Amet Bituin, though, tried to rally FEU back, but unfortunately, they committed several costly mistakes – including a four errors in five possessions – which NU exploited to complete its comeback.
“Well ‘yong game namin sobrang thankful ako sa mga players ko kahit ‘di kami magkarinigan, nagkakatinginan lang kami, kung anong dapat gawin sa loob ng court,” said NU head coach Dante Alinsunurin.
“Pero proud ako sa team ko kasi nilaban parin talaga nila sa fifth set,” he added.
Buddin continued his splendid outing as he pumped in 20 points – all attacks – that went along with 11 excellent receptions, while Mukaba dazzled on both ends as he posted 20 points built on 14 kills and six blocks.
Leo Ordiales put his name on the scoring sheet as he notched 13, while Leo Aringo added 10 with 17 excellent receptions.
Greg Ancheta showcased his playmaking brilliance with 21 excellent sets.
Saavedra and Bituin finished with 24 and 10 points, respectively, for FEU.
Chad Absin poured in nine points, while Mikko Espartero and Jelord Talisayan had six points each.
