National U checked a third set struggle in time as the fancied Bulldogs wrapped up a 25-15, 25-17, 25-20 victory over St. Benilde to mark its campaign in Pool A of the 2022 V-League Collegiate Challenge on Friday.
After his wards cruised to victories in the first two sets, NU coach Dante Alinsunurin opted for new combinations, enabling the Blazers to force a tie at 20. But the recent Spikers’ Turf champions re-asserted their might and closed out with five straight points capped by a Nico Almendras’ spike.
"Maganda naman yung performance namin, although nung third set nga medyo bumaba kasi nga nagpalit ako ng tao, kailangan kong masubukan yung ibang players. Pero bandang huli, nakuha pa rin namin," Alinsunurin said.
"Siguro kailangan namin pagtrabahuhan pa every game," he added.
Still, NU dominated the match with Almendras finishing with 12 points on nine attacks, two service aces, and a block to go with six excellent receptions.
Meanwhile, rookie Michaelo Buddin added 10 markers, eight coming from spikes and had seven excellent receptions.
Georgie Guani scored eight points on six attacks for St. Benilde, which joined San Sebastian at 0-2.
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