THE UST Golden Spikers dismantled the defending NCAA champions Arellano University Chiefs in straight sets, 25-18, 25-18, 25-15, to notch their fourth win in the 2025 V-League men’s Collegiate Challenge on Wednesday, Sept. 3, at the Paco Arena.
With the victory, the Golden Spikers improved to a 4-1 win-loss record, moving just one win away from a semifinals berth.
UST assistant coach Benjamin Mape lauded the team’s composure and consistency throughout the match, especially coming from a tough five-set loss against the NU Bulldogs.
“It’s a very big help for the team and it’s going to be a big help for our upcoming match in order for us to gain consistency,” Mape told The Flame.
“The team’s state of mind was also better after our loss against NU, they were able to recover during training and we were able to condition them both mentally and physically, ” he added.
The España squad set the tone early with relentless attacks from JJ Macam, GBoy de Vega and Trevor Valera building a 13-7 cushion.
Quick strikes from Al-Bukharie Sali and John Catinsag secured the opener for UST, 25-18.
UST kept the pressure in the second frame capitalizing on an Arellano foot fault that sparked a 4-0 run for a 10-6 lead.
Two powerful hits from Iggy Umandal put the UAAP bronze medalists a set away from victory, 25-18.
Macam stayed hot in the third set, scoring three out of UST’s first four points. Valera then fueled a 12-1 surge that blew the set wide open, 20-7.
De Vega delivered the match point before Ryuichi Yamanaka hammered the final blow for a 25-15 victory.
Macam spearheaded UST’s offense with 14 kills, while De Vega chipped in 10 attacks and two service aces.
For Arellano, team captain Jiwen Sinuto carried his squad with 10 points in a losing effort.
The Golden Spikers will clash against the FEU Tamaraws on Saturday, Sept. 6, at the same venue. F
