Falcon spikers lives up to “Laban Adamson” mantra; scores reverse sweep vs UP
Date Posted: April 24, 2023 at 04:21 PM
The Falcon spikers bucked a two-set disadvantage to frustrate fellow also-ran University of the Philippines, 22-25, 27-29, 30-28, 25-21, 15-12, to register their second victory in the UAAP 85 Men's Volleyball tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, April 22.
UP was already holding match point in the third set, 24-21, when Pau Paulino and Francis Casas combined for three straight points to force a deuce for the San Marcelino squad.
Paulino nailed crucial spikes, punctuated by back-to-back hits to bag the set, 30-28, and breathe life to his team.
Seniors Casas and Jude Aguilar then led their team in the fifth set en route to a rousing reverse sweep in two hours and 54 minutes.
"Sabi ko nga sa mga bata, hindi naman natatapos sa two sets ang laro eh basta kailangan lang nila hanggang dulo lumaban sila,” head coach George Pascua said as his team arrested a five-game slump. “Nakikita naman namin yung potential nila during training."
With the win, the Falcons improved to a 2-11 win-loss card. Adamson's first win also came at the expense of UP in the first round via a 25-16, 25-19, 25-22 rout.
Middle blocker Josh Magalaman led the Falcons with 20 points built on 16 attacks, three blocks, and an ace, while Casas delivered 18 points and 16 excellent receptions.
Aguilar came through with 17 points and nine digs, while John Gay contributed 12 points.
The Falcons will close its campaign on April 30 against Far Eastern University at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
