NATIONAL University played steadier in the fourth set to prevail over Ateneo de Manila University, 23-25, 26-24, 27-25, 29-27, Wednesday in the UAAP Season 87 men’s volleyball tournament at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.

The Bulldogs held a 7-1 run to take an 18-15 advantage but the Blue Eagles tied the score at 24-all after NU’s Congolese middle blocker Obed Mukaba made a service error.

NU got the upperhand at 28-27 on Leo Ordiales’ powerful spike and sealed the victory after Ateneo’s Kennedy Batas committed a backrow attack error.

Ordiales scored 14 points built on 13 attacks in leading NU to its second straight win.

Rwenzmel Taguibolos chipped in 13 on seven attacks and six blocks while Mukaba had 10 points, including four blocks and four service aces.

Greg Ancheta led NU’s offense with 18 excellent sets, while Jimwell Gapultos had 18 excellent receptions and four digs.

“I’m thankful for our performance even like if it’s like this. In my opinion, what Ateneo did to us, they really worked hard on what their game plan was. We are the ones who are really trying to get our rhythm, fortunately in the latter sets, we got it. The only important thing is what are the challenges now, we have to learn,” NU head coach Dante Alinsunurin said after the two hours and 11-minute match.

The win was NU’s 10th straight against Ateneo Blue Eagles starting from April 15, 2018 in Season 80.

Batas finished with 21 points for the Blue Eagles, who took their first loss under new coach Vince Mangulabnan, a former NU setter.

Jian Salarzon and Brian Castro contributed 12 points each, Lorenzo Gutierrez tossed 19 excellent sets with five points, while team captain Lance de Castro contributed eight excellent digs for Ateneo, which posted a commanding 24-20 lead in the third set. (PNA)