University of Santo Tomas picked up where it left off, handling the previously unbeaten University of Perpetual Help System DALTA in straight sets, 25-19, 25-19, 25-15, in the 2023 V-League Men's Collegiate Challenge on Friday at Paco Arena.
With the score at 13-11 in the final set, GBoy De Vega made a significant impact by delivering powerful hits against the Altas' reception. This strategic move orchestrated a remarkable 7-0 run, ultimately securing the victory.
This win resulted in the Golden Spikers and the Altas both holding a 2-1 record, closely following Ateneo's undefeated 2-0 standing.
Head coach Odjie Mamon commented on the team's performance, saying, "We had a very light training lang kami kahapon, service receive lang. Then nananood kako scouting videos. Pero ang in-emphasize ko kasi is yung preparasyon ko after nung natalo kami."
Mamon was referring to the one-day interval between this match and their previous victory against National University, a four-set game ending 25-22, 25-16, 18-25, 28-26.
De Vega finished the match with 10 points, including a crucial service ace that ignited the decisive momentum shift in the third set. Meanwhile, UAAP Season 85 MVP Josh Ybañez showcased exceptional performance with 14 points, achieved through 11 spikes, one block, and two service aces.
Among the Perpetualites, Jefferson Marapoc stood out as the sole player in double digits, contributing 15 points. Klint Mateo, serving as the substitute setter in this match, also made a notable impact as an opposite hitter.
