Manila: Adamson University played steadier in the fifth set to prevail over University of the Philippines (UP), 25-21, 28-26, 22-25, 25-27, 15-13, and snap a five-game skid in the UAAP Season 88 men's volleyball tournament at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Sunday.
According to Philippines News Agency, rookie Lance Flestado scored a career-best 28 points on 26 attacks, one block, and one ace as the Soaring Falcons tied the Fighting Maroons at 2-5 to wrap up the first round of eliminations. Adamson coach Raffy Mosuela expressed the team's determination, noting the collective effort. "The team really put in a full effort and it was a collective effort. Since we won the two sets, I knew UP would adjust, but of course, my instructions were the same: the opponent has adjusted, so we need to adjust, too," Mosuela said in an interview.
UP mounted a strong comeback behind Olayemi Raheem, who scored 35 points on 33 attacks and two blocks, to win the third and fourth sets. The match reached a nail-biting conclusion at 13-all in the fifth frame when Flestado hammered a crosscourt spike for match point. UP's Kobe Aca-ac's smash hit the antenna in the next play, allowing Adamson to wrap up the match after two hours and 21 minutes.
Adamson's Ahmed Tahiluddin contributed 12 points and 33 excellent receptions, while Joel Menor also added 12 points. John Gay chipped in with seven points and 31 excellent sets. For UP, Tommy Castrodes added 17 points and 18 excellent receptions, contributing to a fiercely contested match.
