Magalaman takes over as La Salle overpowers EAC

Joshua Magalaman displayed exceptional efficiency, leading De La Salle University to a commanding 25-15, 25-22, 25-21 victory over Emilio Aguinaldo College in the V-League Men’s Collegiate Challenge at the Paco Arena in Manila on Wednesday.

The 88-minute victory extended the Green Spikers’ winning streak to three matches in the pre-season tournament.

Magalaman was a force on the court, delivering 10 attack points on just 13 attempts and contributing three blocks. His stellar 13-point performance powered the Taft-based squad to the top of the standings in the eight-team competition.

In contrast, the Generals suffered their third consecutive defeat.

“Pwede kong sabihing convincing kasi straight sets pero since medyo nagpapalit ako ng players, somehow nakikita ko na rin yung kung anong pwede pang iadjust at the same time ano yung kailangan pa namin ipakita na talagang walang kaduda-duda, the word convincing yun na yun,” said La Salle head coach Jose Roque.

Ruther Abor gave EAC a glimmer of hope late in the second set with a strong off-the-block kill and an ace, pulling them within 22-24. However, he fouled up at serve, giving La Salle the 2-0 set advantage.

The Green Spikers thwarted another comeback attempt from the Generals in the third set, with Magalaman and Arjay Magallanes sealing the straight-set romp.

Chris Hernandez continued his solid form for La Salle with 10 points, while MJ Fortuna added seven markers in limited action.

La Salle will next face archrival Ateneo de Manila on Sunday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.

Abor was the lone bright spot for the Generals, finishing with 15 points on 13 spikes, a block, and an ace.

EAC will attempt to secure their first win next Wednesday against Colegio de San Juan de Letran, also at the Pasig venue.