MANILA, Philippines – The Ateneo Blue Eagles needed just over an hour to dismiss a shorthanded University of the East squad, 27-25, 25-19, 25-14, and rack up its 12th consecutive victory in the UAAP Season 79 men's volleyball tournament Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum.
Facing a UE team that was without skipper Edward Camposano, the Blue Eagles gave away free points to the Red Warriors off their errors in the opening frame, but proved too strong down the stretch and took Set 1 in extended fashion.
It was all Ateneo from that point on, however, as even their bench players shone against the Red Warriors.
"Too bad wala si Edward, but credit to them for playing really well," Ateneo coach Oliver Almadro said of the Red Warriors.
Three-time MVP Marck Espejo led the way for the Blue Eagles with 19 points on 13 attacks and five blocks, but rookie Chumason Njigha – given extended minutes for the first time – also had his moments and finished with six points.
Almadro was able to give playing time to his entire line-up. Rex Intal, playing only in the first two sets, had seven points, and Tony Koyfman matched his output while coming off the bench.
Ish Polvorosa had 34 excellent sets, as Ateneo posted a 43-31 advantage in attacks and a 10-4 advantage in kill blocks.
Clifford Inoferio led UE with 15 points and 11 successful receptions. Camposano missed the game due to an ACL injury in his right knee that will need surgery.
Ateneo improved to 12-0, two wins away from an elimination round sweep and an outright Finals berth. They have also won 26 consecutive matches since Season 78.
The Red Warriors dropped to 1-11.
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