DEFENDING champion National University recovered from a slow start to beat Far Eastern University, 21-25, 25-23, 25-23, 25-18, and move closer to the UAAP Season 81 volleyball title on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
MVP Bryan Bagunas had 18 points and 13 excellent receptions as the Bulldogs drew first blood in the best-of-three title series.
James Natividad had 16 points built on 15 attacks and an ace, while making nine digs. Kim Malabunga and Madz Gampong added 10 points each.
Rookie Joshua Retamar had 28 excellent sets, as the Bulldogs scored their 15th straight win.
NU tries to sweep FEU in Game Two and claim its back-to-back championship on Wednesday at the MOA Arena.
“Nagpapasalamat ako sa performance ng players namin. Medyo nagkaproblema lang kami sa first set sa adjustment talaga sa ginagawa ng kalaban,” said NU coach Dante Alinsunurin, who is eyeing his fourth title.
“Buti na lang pagdating ng second set, third set at saka fourth set naka-recover na kami. Sana magtuluy-tuloy hanggang sa second game,” he added.
Richard Solis led FEU with 17 points, John Paul Bugaoan had 14 points, while Jude Garcia added nine markers on top of 14 excellent receptions and seven digs.
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