University of Perpetual Help bucked an opening set defeat and turned back Emilio Aguinaldo College, 24-26, 25-20, 27-25, 25-19, to move within a win from completing a four-peat in the NCAA Season 99 Men’s Volleyball Tournament on Sunday, May 19, at FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.
So intense and tight the contest was the Altas needed two hours and 11 minutes to dispatch the fighting Generals in the opener of their best-of-three title series that had their supporters – close to 2,000 – roaring in delight after the contest.
“Mahalaga po itong Game 1 para sa amin to get the advantage sa series’ luckily nakuha naming,” said reigning MVP Louie Ramirez moments after the game.
As expected, it was Ramirez who led Perpetual’s onslaught, scattering 23 points on top of 23 excellent receptions.
He was ably supported by Jeff Marapoc who logged 19 points,19 excellent receptions and seven digs, while JC Enarciso had 27 excellent sets.
“Mahirap, pinaghirapan ng mga bata makuha ang Game 1, I respect the EAC Generals, they gave us a good fight,” said coach Sammy Acaylar. “Paghahandaan pa lalo namin ang Game 2, para hindi maputol ang aming winning streak. Salamat sa Perpetual Community and to the Tamayo Family for the support.”
Ervin Osabel paced the EAC Generals with 21 points and 6 digs while Ruther Abor contributed 20 points.
The Altas can complete their mission – completing a four-peat and winning their 14th title – with another win on Sunday, may 26.
Perpetual joined the country’s oldest league only in 1984 but is already acknowledged as one the premier schools in volleyball due to its outstanding program.
