National U ripped La Salle, 25-20, 25-15, 25-18, to complete its expected sweep of Pool A in the 2022 V-League Men’s Collegiate Challenge at the Paco Arena on Wednesday.
Team captain Joshua Retamar didn't suit up due to a sprained left ankle but the Bulldogs still dominated with Joseph Bello taking over the playmaking chores, dishing out 11 excellent sets that went with his four points.
Rookie outside hitter Michael Buddin finished with a game-high 12 points while Nico Almendras and Kennry Malinis chipped in nine and eight markers, respectively, as the recent Spikers' Turf champions closed out group play with a 5-0 slate.
“Sobrang thankful ako na kahit nagka-problema yung isang player namin, talagang merong nag-punan nung posisyon ng bawat isa sa amin kaya sobrang masaya ako sa panalo namin,” said NU head coach Dante Alinsunurin.
“Sobrang importante nitong panalo na ‘to kasi alam mo naman yung nagiging sitwasyon kapag ikaw yung number one kasi magiging advantage ‘to pag-dating ng quarterfinals kasi alam nila na wala kaming talo,” he added.
The Green Spikers reeled to their third straight defeat after winning their first two matches.
Noel Kampton scored eight points while Vince Maglinao added eight points and JM Ronqullo and Nathaniel Del Pilar added six piints apiece for La Salle.
