NU lacked go-to-guy to beat Espejo-led Ateneo, says coach

NU coach Dante Alinsunurin. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

National University head coach Dante Alinsunurin said what stood in the way of the Bulldogs from winning the UAAP title was the team’s lack of a go-to-guy which Ateneo had in four-time MVP Marck Espejo.

“It shows that we still are a little short until the end. The confidence was there, but we had problems when it comes to our decision making in the end,” he said.

The Bulldogs remained as bridesmaids for the third straight year, bowing once again to the three-time champions Blue Eagles after a five-set loss, 18-25, 25-16, 20-25, 25-18, 15-13, on Saturday.

“Ateneo is always flawless in their game. They have a go-to guy that whenever they need to score, they can go to,” he said.

The NU mentor is hopeful that Bryan Bagunas and Fauzi Ismail will take on the role as leaders for the Bulldogs come UAAP Season 80 as they seek to finally regain the crown.

“Maybe next year, we’ll have players who every time we need a point, we can go to. I think that’s the only edge they have against us,” he said. “We’ll have an intact team next year, so I hope next year, we can finally get it.”