The UST Golden Spikers overpowered the DLSU Green Archers via sweep, 25-21, 25-20, 25-16, to secure their second straight win in the UAAP Season 87 men’s volleyball tournament on Wednesday, Feb. 26, at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Despite committing 27 errors in just three sets, UST dominated the offensive department with 40 attacks compared to DLSU’s 28.
“We got hurt in our first game, I told myself that can’t happen again,” UST middle blocker Popoy Colinares said postgame.
Things started tight as the Green Archers trimmed their deficit to one after an off-the-block hit courtesy of MJ Fortuna, 15-14. The Golden Spikers regained control, closing the set with a back-row hit from opposite hitter Jayrack dela Noche, 25-21.
The second frame saw a different story as UST was plagued with early errors, allowing DLSU to take a four-point advantage, 9-5.
However, Colinares turned the tide with three consecutive blocks to push his team ahead, 13-10. The Golden Spikers then rode their offensive rhythm to claim the set, 25-20.
In the third frame, the España squad pounced on the Taft-based squad’s defense. Tiger Sands standout Alche Gupiteo sealed the victory with a winning block, 25-16.
“The confidence they [coaches and teammates] give me serves as motivation to gain more knowledge and become stronger on the court,” Gupiteo told The Flame.
Three Golden Spikers finished in double figures with Colinares leading the pack with 11 attacks, five blocks, and two aces. Dela Noche added 12 points, while rookie JJ Macam chipped in 10 markers.
No player scored in double-digits for the Green Spikers. Chris Hernandez, Noel Kampton, MJ Fortuna and Eric Layug had six markers each.
UST will push to win their third straight game when they face the Adamson Soaring Falcons on Saturday, Mar. 1 at the same venue. F
