Ateneo Blue Eagles. UAAP PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines—Jian Salarzon and Ken Batas stopped Ateneo’s two-game skid as they made quick work of winless Adamson, 25-15, 25-23, 25-13, in the UAAP Season 85 men’s volleyball tournament on Sunday at Philsports Arena.
Salarzon led the way with 13 points built on 10 attacks and three blocks and also made seven excellent receptions as Ateneo regained its winning ways with an improved 2-3 record, coming off back-to-back losses.
Batas propelled the Blue Eagles to pull away in the third set as he finished with 12 points, all coming from attacks out of his 23 attempts.
“Our hard work and the things that coach told us paid off. Even we suffered [back-to-back] losses, we didn’t let those losses affect the team’s goal,” said Batas in Filipino. “Coach told us to keep our intensity inside the court, mental toughness, and of course confidence. That’s the reason why we won.”
Abai Llenos was also instrumental for Ateneo with 10 points, eight receptions, and six digs, while Jetlee Gopio added nine points.
“We’re very happy that we’re able to get our second win after losing two straight,” said Ateneo coach Timmy Sto. Tomas in Filipino. “Hopefully, we will able to sustain it to end the first round and we will be able to bring this momentum going to the second round.”
Adamson remained winless in five games as it gave up 25 errors in the match.
No Falcon scored in double figures with Evander Novillo leading the way with nine points.