TRIUMPHANT. University of Perpetual Help players celebrate their 26-28, 25-20, 25-21, 25-16 victory over Arellano University in the V-League Men’s Collegiate Challenge at the Paco Arena in Manila on November 16, 2022. The win sent the Altas to the semifinal round. (Photo courtesy of PVL Media Bureau)
MANILA – The University of Perpetual Help rallied past Arellano University, 26-28, 25-20, 25-21, 25-16, on Wednesday to forge a semifinal showdown with National University in the V-League Men’s Collegiate Challenge at the Paco Arena in Manila.
The NU Bulldogs scored a 25-15, 25-21, 25-23 victory over the San Beda University Red Spikers in the other quarterfinal match.
Skipper Louie Ramirez led the 12-time NCAA champion Altas with 28 points, including 25 spikes. Outside hitter Hero Austria chipped in 17 points aside from making 11 excellent receptions while middle blocker Michael Medalla finished with 10 points.
"It's a nice game that we won, but still, we are in the process of adjustment because there was a change in my first six players," Perpetual head coach Sinfronio "Sammy" Acaylar said after the match.
The Bulldogs, undefeated in six games, are eyeing their second title after winning the Spikers' Turf.
"We respect NU because it is the UAAP champion and most of its players are members of the national team," said Acaylar. "But Perpetual is also champion of NCAA 12 times so I can say that it will be a good match."
The NU-Perpetual semifinal match is scheduled on Nov. 23.
Outside hitter Angelo Nicolas Almendras had 13 points, 14 excellent receptions and three digs for NU. Middle blocker Obed Mukaba scored eight spikes, two blocks and an ace, Michaelo Buddin had 10 points and Kennry Malinis added nine points.
“Our performance was okay in the first two sets. We had problems with our service and reception in the third set although we won. This is important in the coming semifinals," NU head coach Dante Alinsunurin said.
Ateneo de Manila University also made it to the next round after posting a 25-23, 25-17, 27-25 win over La Salle in the quarterfinal.
Outside hitter Canciano Llenos topscored for Ateneo with 17 spikes, three blocks and an ace, while John Mark Ronquillo paced La Salle with 18 points and six digs.
The Eagles will face the winner of the UST-FEU match being played as of posting time. (PNA)
