With significant playoff implications at stake, National University and De La Salle University face off in a pivotal showdown on Friday to close the V-League Men’s Collegiate Challenge eliminations at Paco Arena, Manila.
The 5 p.m. clash promises high intensity, with the Bulldogs riding the momentum of a four-set triumph over the Letran Knights, while the Green Spikers come off a crucial win against the Perpetual Help Altas, improving both teams to 4-2 and 5-1 records, respectively.
An NU victory would propel the Bulldogs into a tie with the idle UST Golden Spikers and the Green Spikers for third place. Meanwhile, a La Salle win would see them join the league-leading Tamaraws at the top of the standings.
“Yung mental toughness at consistency kailangan pa namin i-polish bago lumaban against La Salle. Kita naman, inconsistent kami sa services at attacks. Medyo kailangan pa linisin ang mga bato ng setter,” said NU assistant coach Jessie Lopez, emphasizing the need for sharper play.
In the other men’s matchup, the Perpetual Help Altas (2-4) will seek redemption after their defeat to La Salle when they face the Ateneo Blue Eagles (1-5) at 3 p.m.
Kobe Tabuga and Jefferson Marapoc will lead the Altas’ charge as they look to keep their slim playoff hopes alive.
Ateneo, though seventh in the standings, will rely on Ken Batas and Jian Salarzon as they fight to finish strong.
In the lone women’s match, the unbeaten UST Golden Tigresses will aim to complete a sweep of the elimination round when they face the Colegio de San Juan de Letran Lady Knights at 12 p.m.
UST, with a perfect 6-0 record, is keen to make it seven straight, while Letran looks to climb from its 2-3 standing in the seven-team field in the pre-season tournament organized by Sports Vision.
