Ralph Imperial. UAAP PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines—University of the East edged University of the Philippines out in a tight straight-set encounter, 25-21, 25-21, 25-23, in the UAAP Season 85 men’s volleyball tournament on Wednesday at Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
In a battle of also-ran teams, UE setter Ralph Imperial kept fighting for school pride as he paced the Red Warriors balanced attack with 18 excellent sets.
Giles Torres and JM Andaya led the collective effort of the Red Warriors with 11 points each. Ken Culabat delivered an all-around game with 10 points, 17 excellent receptions, and nine digs. JP Mangahis also scored 10, while Joshua Pozas added nine markers.
After bombing out of the Final Four race last week, UE coach Jerome Guhit was pleased with how his wards fought with a lot of pride to improve to a 5-8 record for the sixth seed
“I told them even if we’re no longer in the Final Four race, we still have to continue aiming for a win,” said Guhit in Filipino, returning to the sidelines after joining the Philippine men’s volleyball team training camp. “We have to continue fighting for the team’s pride.”
Angelo Reyes, who finished with seven points, was also instrumental for UE as he nailed the finishing touches in the second set and drilled the game-clinching crosscourt attack in the third to end the match.
UE tries to end its season with another win against La Salle on Saturday.
UP absorbed its 12th loss in 13 games with Louis Gamban leading the way with 14 points before wrapping up its campaign against the No.2 University of Santo Tomas on Sunday.