UST withstands NU rally for bounce back win

University of Santo Tomas rebounded from a setback in the third set to overcome reigning champion National University in four sets, with scores of 25-22, 25-16, 18-25, and 28-26. The victory secured UST's first win of the 2023 V-League Collegiate Challenge, which took place on Wednesday at the Paco Arena in Manila.

With this win, the Golden Spikers matched the Bulldogs' record at 1-1, trailing behind the flawless 2-0 performances of the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA and Ateneo de Manila University.

UST found a hero in the reigning UAAP MVP, Josh Ybañez, who delivered three consecutive kills to seal the match after facing a set point at 23-24 during the fourth set.

Coach Odjie Mamon shared insights into the turnaround, stating, "Galing kasi to sa talo, so pinukpok ko to, walang Sunday off. Pero ang in-emphasize ko lang sa training is yung disiplina. Yung pangit ang bola, huwag mong pwersahin, buhayin mo lang."

Ybañez also made a significant contribution on defense against NU's formidable wall, registering seven digs throughout the match. GBoy De Vega recovered from a shaky third set to finish with 12 points.

For the Bulldogs, Michaelo Buddin led the charge with 19 points, while prized recruit Jade Disquitado added 16 markers in this V-League and UAAP Finals rematch.