Ybanez, UST deal Ateneo first loss for share of lead

University of Santo Tomas moved closer to the top spot in the semifinals after a critical four-set victory over the previously unbeaten Ateneo de Manila University, with scores of 25-20, 25-23, 22-25, and 25-15, in the 2023 V-League Collegiate Challenge held on Sunday at the Paco Arena in Manila.

This win, their fifth consecutive victory after a loss to De La Salle University, was a result of their thorough preparation against Ateneo.

"Out of all the teams, they were the ones we really focused on. I dedicated time to scouting them, but during the third set, we relaxed and our effort became half-hearted," said UST head coach Odjie Mamon.

"We still have one more game to secure the number 1 spot."

A dominant final set, bolstered by the Golden Spikers' solid net defense, proved to be the decisive blow against the Blue Eagles. Reigning UAAP MVP Josh Ybañez contributed significantly with four crucial points in that set, including the match-ending kill block.

Ybañez finished with 23 points, 18 of which came from successful attacks, while Rainier Flor added 13 points, crucially supporting UST, especially during the second and third sets of the match.

Ken Batas once again led the Blue Eagles' fight with 16 points, all of which were scored through attacks, while Amil Pacinio quietly contributed 14 points, including two service aces. The defeat dropped the Blue Eagles to a 4-1 record.