BOUNCING BACK FROM their previous outing, the San Beda Red Spikers leaned on discipline and timely adjustments to secure a four-set victory over the Letran Knights, 26–24, 20–25, 26–24, 25–23, in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Season 101 men’s volleyball tournament on February 3 at the San Andres Sports Complex.
San Beda opened the match with composure, narrowly taking the first set 26–24. Early in the set, San Beda challenged a ball in–ball out call. Upon video review, the ball was ruled in, giving San Beda the point.
Letran answered back in the second frame. They capitalized on extended rallies to level the match at one set apiece, scoring a 20-25.
The Red Spikers regrouped in the third set, once again edging the Knights in another close finish, 26–24. They carried their momentum into the fourth set, playing with growing confidence. Their strong performance and steadier execution sealed their win, scoring a 25-23.
Team captain Axel Van Book anchored the Red Spikers’ offense, firing a match-high 24 points to guide San Beda through the tightly contested sets and provide stability in crucial moments.
Head coach Ariel Dela Cruz shared that the team’s preparation centered on managing pressure and making necessary adjustments, particularly on the mental side of the game.
“Konting pressure lang, ganoon pa rin,” Dela Cruz said, noting that the coaching staff focused on boosting the players’ mental readiness as the match progressed.
Dela Cruz added that the team implemented minor tactical changes, treating the match as a learning opportunity rather than a complete shift in strategy.
“Binago lang namin konti,” he said.
Looking ahead to their upcoming matchup against Jose Rizal University, Dela Cruz emphasized that the Red Spikers cannot afford to ease up despite the win.
“Hindi pwedeng mag-relax,” he said. “Hindi natatapos dito sa game na ’to. Marami pa tayong panalong kailangan.”
He stressed sustained focus from start to finish, reminding his players to stay locked in from the opening serve until the final point.
“Hanggang hindi natatapos yung 25, hanggang hindi natatapos ang three sets, huwag silang mag-relax,” Dela Cruz added.
With renewed momentum, the Red Spikers aim to carry their discipline and readiness into their next game as they face the JRU Heavy Bombers on February 6, at the same venue.
Set Scores: San Beda – Letran: 26–24, 20–25, 26–24, 25–23
Box Scores:
San Beda (3): Book 24, Bakil 15, Munsing 10, Cabalsa 10, Ignacio 6, Castañeda 5, Rosman 3
Letran (1): Ambrocio, 17, Himzon 14, Bautista 14, Lardizabal 14, Abeto 11, Arano 2, Bermido 2, Lopez 1