AFTER A TOUGH season opener, the San Beda Red Spikers rallied to defend home court with their first win of the season against the Arellano Chiefs, 18-25, 25-18, 25-19, 29-27, in the NCAA Season 100 Men’s Volleyball Tournament at the SBU Gym, February 28.

Initially, the Red Spikers struggled to find their rhythm due to service errors, allowing the Arellano Chiefs to take control of the first set by establishing a commanding seven point lead. Despite a late push from San Beda, Arellano maintained their lead, closing the set at 18-25.

Adjustments in the second set saw the Red Spikers turn up the intensity, with Axel Van Brook and Alener Greg Munsing stepping up on both ends of the court and dictate the pace. Allowing an early lead, closing the set 25-18.

With momentum on their side, the Red Spikers dominated the third set, controlling the net and capitalizing on Arellano’s errors. A strong service game and well-executed plays led them to take a comfortable 25-19, putting them ahead 2-1 in the match.

The fourth set turned into a gripping back-and-forth match, with neither team giving an inch. With the Red Spikers and Chiefs refusing to back down as both exchanged clutch plays, forcing multiple deadlocks, and having reached match point. 

Tied at 27-all, the Red Spikers stayed composed under pressure, delivering back-to-back decisive points to edge out the Chiefs, 29-27, clinching their first win of the season in the home court of Mendiola.

Following this hard fought victory, the Red Spikers will look to continue their momentum as they take on the Jose Rizal University (JRU) Bombers on March 6 at 3:00 p.m. at the Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) Gym. 

(with Paris Isaac Falcone)

Set Scores:  

San Beda – AU: 18-25, 25-18, 25-19, 27-29

Box Scores:

San Beda (3): Book 22, Munsing 13, Rosman 13, Bakil 8, Montemayor 6, Castaneda 4, Milajani 2

AU (1): Sinuto 12, Berdal 11, Curamen 11, Agovida 10, Dominguito 8, Guinto 3, Bustillo 1, Villados 1