FOR THE first time in the 2023 V-League Collegiate Challenge, Ateneo (4-1) tasted defeat after falling to the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Golden Spikers (5-1) in four sets, 20-25, 23-25, 25-22, 15-25. The match was held earlier this evening at the Paco Arena in Manila City.

Reigning University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Most Valuable Player and Rookie of the Year Josh Ybañez paced the España-based squad today with 23 points on 18 attacks, four blocks, and one ace to help UST solidify their place atop the Men’s standings.

Supplementing the star hitter were Rainer Flor and Rey De Vega, who chalked up 13 and 12 markers respectively.

Meanwhile, Kennedy Batas led the Blue Eagles in the scoring department today, as he churned out 16 points on 16 attacks. Veterans Amil Pacinio and Jian Salarzon followed suit with 14 and 13 points apiece.

Despite Ateneo’s best efforts to keep up during the first and second frames, the Golden Spikers’ vicious attacks and excellent floor defense proved to be the difference as they scurried ahead to a two-set cushion.

Looking to extend the contest, the Blue and White battled to earn a 24-20 lead at the backend of the third canto. Ultimately, Ateneo’s set points were enough to stave off a late UST comeback attempt and claim the set win, 25-22.

However, the Blue Eagles’ momentum would immediately get shut down by the UAAP Season 86 Men’s Volleyball runner-up. Leaning on their all-around play which gave them the advantage early on, the Golden Spikers overwhelmed Ateneo and closed out the set and the match, 25-15.

The Blue Eagles now turn their attention towards the National University Bulldogs as the two teams go head-to-head on Wednesday, September 13 at 12:00 PM in the same venue.

Box Scores:

Ateneo (1): Batas 16, Pacinio 14, Salarzon 13, Gopio 6, Sendon 6, Mangulabnan 1

UST (3): Ybañez 23, Flor 13, De Vega 12, Colinares 9, Dedoroy 5, Valera 4, Umandal 4

Set Scores: 
Ateneo-UST: 20-25, 23-25, 25-22, 15-25