Falcons fall to Ateneo in four to open UAAP volley tilt
Date Posted: February 17, 2025 at 12:02 PM
Adamson’s Men’s Volleyball Team suffered an early season setback, falling to Ateneo de Manila University, 17-25, 19-25, 25-22, 23-25, in their opening match of UAAP 87 competition at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, February 16.
Despite a slow start, the Soaring Falcons showed grit in the third set, rallying behind Marc Paulino and Ahmed Tahiluddin to secure a 25-22 win and extend the match. Paulino and Tahiluddin spearheaded a crucial 5-1 run that transformed a slim 19-18 lead into a commanding 24-19 advantage, preventing an Ateneo sweep.
Adamson fought hard in the fourth set, trimming a 15-11 deficit to just two points at 22-20. However, a quick attack from Jett Gopio, a crosscourt hit from Jian Salarzon, and a costly net touch error denied the Falcons a chance to force a deciding fifth set.
Paulino led Adamson with 13 points, built on 12 attacks, while Tahiluddin contributed 11 points, including 10 attacks. Ronn Domingo provided stability in playmaking with 15 excellent sets, while Anrhil Cuadra held his ground in defense with 12 excellent receptions and 11 excellent digs.
With the loss, the Falcon spikers marked their seventh straight defeat dating back to April 3, 2024, during UAAP 86. Their last victory came nearly a year ago, when they swept the University of the East on March 23, 2024, in the second round of the previous season.
The team now mentored by former UE juniors coach Raffy Mosuela experienced various position changes in their lineup headline by Jude Aguilar moving to Opposite Hitter and skipper John Gay to Outside Hitter.
Adamson aims to rediscover their winning form as they prepare for a crucial match against De La Salle University on February 22, at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.
