PJ Reyes clicked at the perfect time, steering Mapua University to a 15-25, 25-21, 30-28, 26-24 win against the twice-to-beat San Beda University in the NCAA Season 101 men's volleyball quarterfinals on Tuesday at the San Andres Sports Complex.
The sophomore opposite hitter delivered 20 points off the bench anchored on 17 attacks and three blocks as the Cardinals extended their season and dragged the Red Spikers to a do-or-die game on Friday.
The winner of that game will face defending champion Arellano University in the Final Four.
"Sabi ko lang po sa sarili ko no'n, kahit anong mangyari ready po ako dapat kahit anong mangyari sa court. Ayoko din po na 'yung mga seniors namin ay ito na 'yung last game nila," Reyes told GMA News Online.
"Ayoko pong mangyari 'yun. Gusto ko pong mag-Finals kami at mag-champion."
(I just told myself then, whatever happens on the court, I need to be ready. I didn't want this to be the last game for my seniors.... I don't want that. I want us to make the Finals and be the champions.)
Reyes replaced usual starter Olsen Jamisola, who had to be carried off the court following an awkward landing with the Cardinals trailing 11-12 early in the opening set.
And he delivered. Reyes gave Mapua a crucial 23-21 lead in Set 2 before he conspired with Adrian Musni in denying Ryan Rosman to close out the frame, 25-21.
San Beda held a slim 28-27 advantage in the third set before Alvin Macadangdang delivered consecutive points to give Mapúa a 29-28 lead. The Cardinals then stood tall at the net, as their triple block denied Book on the next play to secure the set.
The Red Spikers tried to rally in Set 4 behind veteran Anrie Bakil, whose rejection of Arjay Ramos forced a 23-all deadlock. Another error from Ramos saw San Beda claim a 24-23 cushion, but Barbie San Andres and Musni fueled a 3-0 closing run to seal the win.
Ramos provided the help with 18 points and 17 receptions while San Andres posted 11 markers, 22 receptions, and five digs.
—JMB, GMA Integrated News
