Manila: University of Santo Tomas pulled off a 25-18, 25-18, 25-15 victory over NCAA champion Arellano University Wednesday night to keep solo second in the V-League Collegiate Challenge at the Paco Arena Sports and Events Center in Manila. Jan Julian Macam scored all his 14 points from attacks and made five excellent receptions and four digs as the Golden Spikers improved their win-loss record to 4-1, behind the De La Salle Green Spikers (5-0).
According to Philippines News Agency, Gboy de Vega and Trevor Valera added 12 and nine points, respectively, while John Vryvin Catinsag and Sherwin Jan Umandal scored six points each for UST, which rebounded from a 19-25, 24-26, 25-16, 25-14, 17-19 loss to UAAP titlist National University last August 19. UST will face Far Eastern University (3-1) on September 6.
"The first thing we really focused on was the kids' mental toughness. When we prepared the mental toughness after our loss to NU, we also focused on their skills to get them ready for the next game, which resulted in a win, and then we have a crucial game against FEU this Saturday. So we need to start again to improve the kids' condition," commented UST assistant coach Benjamin Mape after the one-hour and 20-minute encounter.
Skipper Jiwen Sinuto finished with 10 points while Arman Clarence Guinto chipped in five points to go with 15 excellent receptions for the Chiefs, whose best effort was moving to within 15-13 in the second set. Arellano will battle Ateneo de Manila University on September 7.
Meanwhile, Colegio de San Juan de Letran prevailed over College of Saint Benilde, 23-25, 25-15, 25-19, 25-23, to join NU in fifth place at 2-3. Dave Lardizabal led the Knights with 21 points off 18 attacks and three blocks, followed by Bembem Bautista with 18 points on 14 attacks, two blocks, and two aces.
Reigning NCAA MVP Rocky Motol scored 18 points off 16 attacks and two blocks, and had 17 receptions, while Reymark Betco contributed 12 points off 11 attacks and one block for the Blazers, who dropped their fourth match in five outings. Benilde will meet FEU on September 7, while Letran and FEU will clash on September 10.
