The NU Bulldogs and UST Golden Spikers flexed their muscles against the Ateneo Blue Eagles and UP Fighting Maroons in the UAAP Season 86 men's volleyball tournament on Wednesday, April 10.
National University secured a Final Four spot in the UAAP Season 86 men's volleyball tournament after charging past Ateneo de Manila University in straight sets, 25-22, 25-21, 25-19, in the UAAP Season 86 men's volleyball tournament at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay on Wednesday, April 10.
Aside from NU, Far Eastern University, who sits with a 9-1 record, likewise secured a Final Four berth after Ateneo's defeat.
The Bulldogs had another balanced outing from its players with Taguibolos leading the way with 12 points, while Nico Almendras and Leo Aringo added 10 and nine points, respectively.
In the third set, the Blue Eagles tried to close the gap against the Bulldogs, trimming to lead to just three at 18-21. However, Nico Almedras and Taguibolos put away Ateneo for good.
With the win, NU sits with a 9-2 record, just behind FEU, while Ateneo dropped to 5-6, now two games behind fourth place.
Jian Salarzon and Kennedy Batas combined for 29 points in the Blue Eagles' loss.
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The University of Santo Tomas, meanwhile, widened the gap at the fourth spot with a 25-13, 25-22, 25-21 straight-sets victory over University of the Philippines.
This marked the Golden Spikers' third consecutive victory, bringing their record to 7-4, placing them 1.5 games ahead of Ateneo.
Gboy De Vega delivered crucial hits in the second set, while Trevor Valera and Kenneth Salvador, substituting players, made significant contributions in the third set.
Josh Ybañez once again led UST with 23 points, supported by De Vega's 13 points and 11 receptions. The team notably reduced their errors to just 17, a rare achievement for them.
Meanwhile, the Fighting Maroons suffered their 15th consecutive loss, maintaining a winless record of 0-11 in the tournament.
Angelo Lagando scored 12 points for UP, with Jaivee Malabanan adding 10 points, nine receptions, and four digs.