Perpetual Help gains solo lead at V-League

UNIVERSITY of Perpetual Help gained the solo lead even as De La Salle University got off to a winning start in the 2023 Men's V-League Collegiate Challenge at the Paco Arena on Friday, August 18. The Perpetual Help Altas blanked the San Beda Red Spikers, 25-14, 25-17, 25-22, for their second win in as many games. On the other hand, the La Salle Green Spikers recovered from a close first set loss to turn back the University of Santo Tomas Golden Spikers, 26-28, 25-18, 28-26, 25-21.

The Altas react after scoring a point against the Red Spikers in the 2023 Men’s V-League Collegiate Challenge at the Paco Arena on Friday, August 18. PHOTO BY DENNIS ABRINA

Jeff Marapoc and Kobe Tabuga joined hands in a pivotal 4-0 run to raise a slim 16-15 third set lead to a 20-15 advantage as the Altas created enough cushion to finish off the Red Spikers.

“I'm happy we got the win because we prepared for this. I'm happy that even without [our ace player] Louie Ramirez, we're playing as solid team,” Perpetual Help coach Sammy Acaylar said.

Marapoc finished with 13 points, all coming from attacks, while Tabuga added nine points built around seven spikes and two aces. JC Enarciso chipped in 12 excellent sets and added five points, including two service aces. Meanwhile, skipper JM Ronquillo uncorked 27 points on 23 attacks and four blocks to power La Salle past UST.

JJ Rodriguez proved to be solid off the bench, notching 12 points to backstop Ronquillo. UAAP Season 85 Most Valuable Player Josh Ybañez finished with seven points after only playing two sets for UST. Rainier Flor and GBoy de Vega contributed 13 and 10 points, respectively, for the Golden Spikers.