EAC, San Beda book semis berths in NCAA men’s volley

Howard Mojica goes for the kill. INQUIRER File Photo

Emilio Aguinaldo College earned the top seed of the NCAA Season 91 men’s volleyball tournament, while San Beda punched the last ticket to the Final Four Tuesday at San Juan Arena.

Howard Mojica once again flexed his muscle to tow the Generals to a four-set victory over Perpetual, 21-25, 25-20, 25-17, 25-19, in the playoff for the number one spot.

The reigning Most Valuable Player poured 30 points, buoyed by 24 kills, five service aces, and three blocks as the Generals remained in prime position to defend their volleyball crown.

Hariel Doguna supported him with 11 points, while Kerth Melliza got all of his 10 points from spikes. Israel Encina also got 10 points in the win.

John Patrick Ramos got 10 points from nine kills, and Manuel Doliente also had 10 for Perpetual in the losing effort.

The Altas will still enjoy a twice-to-beat advantage against third-seed St. Benilde in the semifinals.

Meanwhile, in the fourth-place playoff, San Beda advanced to the semifinals, downing Arellano in four sets, 25-22, 25-20, 22-25, 25-22.

Mark Enciso powered the Red Lions with his 19 points, all from kills, while Gerald Zabala had 11 of his 13 points from spikes in the win.

San Beda also saw contributions from Alfie Mascari-as and Felix Manliclic, who both had 12 points apiece.

Kenneth Aliyacyac captained the Chiefs in the defeat with 14 points.

The Red Lions will now go up against top seed EAC, with the Generals owning a twice -to-beat edge.