EAC passes tough Mapua test in emotional five-set escape

Published April 20, 2024 7:58pm

Updated April 20, 2024 7:58pm

Emilio Aguinaldo College overcame a gallant stand from hungry Mapua University, 19-25, 25-16, 25-21, 23-25, 15-13, to remain unblemished in the NCAA Season 99 men’s volleyball tournament on Saturday at the FilOil EcoOil Centre.

The Generals had the chance to win it in four, but regrouped just in time in the decider to gut out the hard-fought victory and improve to 4-0, forging a tie at the top with defending champion Perpetual.

The Cardinals, meanwhile, crashed to a 0-4 hole despite a great fight that pushed EAC to its limit.

Leading the Generals was Ervin Osabel, who detonated for 22 points and nine digs while Kenneth Batiancila churned out 14 markers. Jan Abor and veteran outside hitter Marvin Romero each poured in 13 with the latter grabbing 12 receptions as well.

EAC tried to mount a huge comeback in the fourth set as they held a 2-1 set lead, trimming what was once a 16-22 deficit to just two after back-to-back Romero kills, 23-24.

But Barbie San Andres made sure they extended the match by going through two blockers to force a fifth set.

EAC then zoomed to an early lead in the fifth after a Bryan Cabrera explosion from the opposite side, 6-2 before Mapua gunner San Andres soared from the back row to make it a 9-8 affair.

Romero, who previously said they are dedicating the season to their late teammate Mark Justin Cabacang, nailed the last three points, including the game-winning hammer as EAC escaped Mapua in the match that lasted for two hours and nine minutes.

The loss spoiled another stellar outing from San Andres, who churned out 31 points built on 26 attacks, four blocks, and one ace alongside seven digs and 18 receptions.

—JMB, GMA Integrated News