Barbie San Andres dazzled with an all-around outing to lift Mapua University to a 25-20, 26-24, 18-25, 21-25, 15-12 win over Arellano University in Game 1 of the NCAA Season 101 men's volleyball Final Four on Tuesday at the San Andres Sports Complex.
The graduating outside spiker delivered a season-high 33-point explosion fueled by 30 attacks, two blocks, and an ace while anchoring the floor defense with 18 receptions and five digs, as the Cardinals struck first against the defending champions.
San Andres had plenty of support as Arjay Ramos battled through cramps in the third set to tally 18 points and 11 receptions, while PJ Reyes added 11 more markers.
After seizing the opening frame, Mapua trailed 22-24 in Set 2 after Ramos went wide on his attack. But the Cardinals flipped the switch by unleashing a 4-0 rampage to take a commanding 2-0 edge.
But the Chiefs didn't back down from the fight either as AC Guinto shook off an early injury scare in the opening set and returned to ignite Arellano’s comeback, joining forces with Jiwen Sinuto and Daniel Agovida, whose quick attack sealed the fourth set in their favor.
Mapua then soared to a quick 3-0 start in the deciding frame before Arellano launched a relentless net defense to tie things up at 7-all.
The Chiefs even seized a 10–9 edge after Bryan Jay Cabrera stuffed San Andres on the left wing.
But San Andres quickly responded in style, teaming up with Ramos to power the Cardinals to a 14–11 cushion.
Alvin Macadangdang then put the finishing touch, hammering down a quick attack that ultimately stunned the reigning champions.
Four Arellano players reached double-digit scoring with Sinuto and Agovida leading the way with 18 points each while CJ Dominguito chipped in 14 markers, eight digs, and 23 receptions.
Mapua, which outlasted Arellano despite the absence of head coach Aying Esteban, will look to eliminate the Chiefs in Game 2 on Friday and punch its first Finals appearance at least in the Final Four era.
—JMB, GMA Integrated News
