National University’s Leo Ordiales (right) tries to score against University of the Philippines’ Angelo Lagando during the UAAP Season 87 men’s volleyball tournament on Wednesday (March 26, 2025) at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan. The Bulldogs won, 23-25, 25-14, 25-20, 25-23. (UAAP photo)
Defending champions National University rebounded from their recent loss with a gritty four-set win over the University of the Philippines, 23-25, 25-14, 25-20, 25-23, on Wednesday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
Jade Alex Disquitado powered the Bulldogs with 22 points built on 21 attacks and a block, helping NU secure solo second at 7-2. Disquitado also contributed 20 receptions and six digs in the one-hour-and-51-minute encounter.
“We focused on our blocking and passing. We reminded each other to stay composed and not rush because that’s when we start committing errors,” Disquitado said.
Leo Aringo supported with 19 points, while Michaelo Buddin added 17 markers along with 11 receptions and nine digs. The Bulldogs bounced back after falling to De La Salle University last March 23.
Obed Mukaba, NU’s Congolese middle blocker, chipped in 10 points off five attacks, four blocks, and an ace. Peng Taguibolos added seven points with a balanced performance of five attacks, a block, and an ace.
The victory marked NU’s 13th consecutive win over UP, a streak that dates back to 2016.
“We’re still playing catch-up in most of our matches,” said NU head coach Dante Alinsunurin. “We haven’t had a dominant win yet, but the important thing is we’re still winning and being tested in the process.”
NU will next face undefeated Far Eastern University on March 30 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in a highly anticipated showdown.
For UP, Olayemi Raheem delivered a game-high 26 points on 24 attacks, a block, and an ace, but it wasn’t enough to prevent their seventh loss in nine games.
Angelo Lipata and Daniel Nicolas added seven points apiece, while Louise Aballe recorded 17 excellent sets and four points. Nino Bersano anchored the floor defense with 14 digs and 10 receptions. The Fighting Maroons will look to regroup against the winless University of the East on Sunday.