Arellano University kept its title defense campaign alive after defeating Mapua University, 25-16, 25-22, 22-25, 25-17, in Game 2 of the NCAA Season 101 men’s volleyball semifinals on Friday at the San Andres Gym in Manila.
The win allowed the Chiefs to level the series and force a deciding Game 3.
Arellano was on the verge of closing out the match in straight sets, but Mapua mounted a strong stand in the third, eking out a tight win to extend the contest.
The Chiefs regained control in the fourth set, breaking away from a slim 7-5 lead to a 20-15 advantage before sealing the victory on a block by Daniel Agovida.
CJ Dominguito paced Arellano with 20 points built on 17 attacks and three blocks, along with 24 receptions and eight digs. Jiwen Sinuto added 10 points and 10 digs.
AC Guinto contributed 14 points, while Agovida chipped in 13. Setter Andrei Salvo orchestrated the offense with 28 of the team’s 35 excellent sets.
For Mapua, Arjay Ramos led the way with 21 points, while Barbie San Andres finished with 13 points and 24 receptions.
Game 3 of the semifinals is set for Sunday.
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
