Measure of revenge for NU as the Bulldogs remain spotless in men's volleyball.
National University averted a winless Saturday in UAAP volleyball as its Bulldogs overcame the University of Santo Tomas Golden Spikers, 25-20, 25-19, 19-25, 25-21 later in the day. The four-set victory at the Mall of Asia Arena allowed the Bulldogs to keep their slate unbeaten at 3-0 to lead the UAAP Season 85 men’s volleyball tournament.
Perhaps just as important, the win also gave NU a measure of revenge after its women’s squad lost to UST in women’s volleyball earlier in a five-set thriller, snapping its incredible 20-game winning streak.
Michaelo Buddin scored 21 points off 16 attacks, along with 3 blocks, and 2 aces to lead the Bulldogs to victory. Nico Almendras and Ken Malinis provided added firepower, pouring 17 and 13 markers, respectively. Setter Josh Retamar was just as impressive with his 23 excellent sets and 5 points.
Josh Ybanez carried the fight for UST, matching Buddin point-for-point as he tallied 20 markers, along with 13 digs and 12 receptions. Jay De la Noche added 14 points, while Rey De Vega contributed 10 markers for the Golden Spikers, who absorbed their first defeat in the tournament to slide down to 2-1.