Cameroonian middle blocker Issa Ousseini handed the Green Spikers their first match-point opportunity with a service ace after nearly squandering a 22-18 lead. However, an error on his next serve triggered a tense exchange of points between the two sides.
Ousseini finished with nine points built on four attacks and four blocks, plus that lone service ace and two crucial digs.
Mac Bandiola tried to force a fourth set for National U with a precise hit, but back-to-back errors — a service fault from Joelbert Doromal followed by a long attempt from the outside hitter — sealed the 37-minute third set and the match for De La Salle.
"Isa lang naman 'yung sinabi ko sa team before this game, if we can beat 'yung performance namin nung first game. Para at least may gauge kami kung nag-i-improve ba kami o hindi. And sabi ko, no pressure kasi this is just pre-competition. 'Yung winning is just a reward; kung gagalaw tayo nang maayos, merong maipapakita," said De La Salle head coach Jose Roque.
The Green Spikers indeed delivered, especially in the first two sets where they controlled the Bulldogs in transition, scoring most of their 46 total kills and taking full advantage of NU’s erratic passing. Eugene Gloria and MJ Fortuna led the charge early, scoring nine points apiece.
Coach Roque tapped into his bench in the third set, with Rui Ventura and Yoyong Mendoza contributing to the late rally that allowed Ousseini to finish the job.
The Green Spikers (2-0) will aim for a third consecutive win against sister school De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde on Sunday at noon in the same venue.
Bandiola was the lone bright spot for NU with 14 points, all from attacks, while Jan Abanilla chipped in seven in the loss.
The Bulldogs (1-1) will look to rebound against Ateneo (1-1) on Saturday at 5 p.m.
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