The National University Bulldogs secured the No. 2 seed after subduing the UST Golden Spikers, 25-22, 20-25, 25-23, 28-26, in their playoff in the UAAP Season 88 men’s volleyball tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, April 25.
NU looked poised for a dominant fourth-set finish with Leo Ordiales and Buds Buddin’s consecutive hits, until UST responded with a 5-1 run to tie the frame at 20-all.
The Golden Spikers then exchanged points with NU until they reached two set points through an Ordiales attack error and a Josh Ybañez drop ball.
However, the Bulldogs pulled back with a closing surge capped by a Vryvin Catinsag service error and a finishing kill block by Ordiales to seal the playoff win.
Ordiales led all scorers as he drove home 22 points while Buddin added 20 points on 19 attacks.
“We’re happy to get the No. 2 spot, but it doesn’t end here. We’ll face them again. I’m just glad we’re finding our rhythm again,” said Ordiales in Filipino.
The victory served as revenge for NU after its loss to UST earlier that week.
The result came with NU locking in the No. 2 seed and a twice-to-beat advantage in preparation to face No. 3 UST anew in the semi-finals.
Written by Timothy Baroga, Insight PH
Timothy Baroga, Insight PH is a dedicated campus journalist and contributor. Their insightful writing sparks meaningful conversations and keeps the community informed.
