UAAP: UST snaps skid, Ateneo tops Adamson in men’s volleyball

Josh Ybañez jumps in celebration during UST’s win over La Salle in UAAP Season 87 men’s volleyball.–UAAP PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—University of Santo Tomas stopped its losing streak in the UAAP Season 87 men’s volleyball tournament but it certainly didn’t come easy.

After losing three straight games, the Golden Spikers got back on the winning track after overcoming La Salle, 25-22, 25-22, 16-25, 25-22, spoiling Noel Kampton’s big game on Saturday.

Kampton finished with a 30-piece but it still wasn’t enough as La Salle dropped to a 5-4 card same with UST.

READ: UAAP: NU holds off UST, gets big lift from Jade Disquitado

UST coach Odjie Mamon was satisfied with how the Golden Spikers pushed through for the victory despite a monster outing from Kampton and some late-game fumbles.

“We’re back in the win column, and regarding our errors, especially at the end when we struggle and get distracted in closing out the game—that’s what we worked on this past week. I think it was quite a success,” said Mamon.

Josh Ybañez powered UST with a season-high 21 points while Dux Yambao set up the offense with 27 excellent sets.

Ateneo repulses Adamson

Ateneo Blue Eagles during a game against Adamson Falcons in the UAAP Season 87 men’s volleyball tournament.–UAAP PHOTO

Ateneo bolstered its hold of the third seed with a 25-21, 19-25, 25-16, 25-17 victory over struggling Adamson.

The Blue Eagles collected their third straight win behind the efforts of Kennedy Batas, who finished with 20 points and 11 receptions.

READ: UAAP: Adamson escapes UE, Ateneo blanks UP in men’s volleyball

“I just told them to smile because it helps a lot. I also reminded them not to get discouraged just because we lost focus in the second set. In the latter part of the game, we were able to overcome those challenges,” said Batas after steering Ateneo to a 6-3 record.

Jude Aguilar, on the other end, finished with 16 points for the Soaring Falcons, who crashed to 2-7 for the season.