THE ATENEO Men’s Beach Volleyball Team (AMBVT) conceded their semi-final match against the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Tiger Sands, but emerged victorious over the Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws to clinch a bronze medal finish. The University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 88 games were held earlier today, November 30, at the Sands SM by the Bay in the City of Pasay.

Semifinal match vs. UST

To commence the semi-final bouts of the day, Jian Salarzon and Amil Pacinio confronted defending champions UST Tiger Sands duo Alche Gupiteo and Dominique Gabito. The Blue and White remained within striking distance of the España-based unit in the opening set, but succumbed to the Tiger Sands’ prowess, 18-21.

In an effort to extend the match to a third set, the Blue Eagles rallied against the Black and Gold. However, similar to their elimination round contest, the Atenean duo failed to contain the six-time gold medalists following a sweep, 14-21.

Bronze medal match vs. FEU

Determined to claim the last spot on the podium, the veteran dyad toiled on correcting their errors from the previous match, as they guard FEU’s Rey Postorioso and Christian Salboro. Deadlocks occurred at the first half of set one, before Salarzon capitalized on open zones through smart cut shots, 21-16.

With burning momentum at its peak, Pacinio’s unstoppable force at the service area paved a 7-0 run for the Blue Eagles. The fortified net assistance of Salarzon continued to widen the gap towards victory, 21-11.

After a tough seventh place finish last season, the Katipunan-based squad displayed an impressive redemption run in their Season 88 journey. The Atenean trio of Salarzon, Pacinio, and Miguel Yu are now set to return their talents indoors for the Season 88 Men’s Volleyball Tournament next year.

Set scores: 

Ateneo (0) – UST (2): 18-21, 14-21

Ateneo (2) – FEU (0): 21-16, 21-11