La Salle, UST remain unbeaten in V-League Collegiate Challenge
De La Salle University and University of Santo Tomas kept their winning streaks intact in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge, dispatching their opponents in contrasting styles Tuesday, August 12, at the Paco Arena Sports and Events Center.
The Green Spikers fended off a late scare to sweep National University, 21-17, 21-15, 33-31, for their second straight win. La Salle nearly let a 22-18 lead slip in the third set, but Cameroonian middle blocker Issa Ousseini delivered a crucial service ace to reach match point.
Ousseini posted nine points from four attacks, four blocks, and an ace, including two excellent digs. Eugene Gloria and MJ Fortuna also tallied nine markers apiece, while timely contributions from bench players Rui Ventura and Yoyong Mendoza helped seal the win.
Coach Jose Roque said he challenged his team to show growth from their opening match.
“I only told the team one thing before the game — to see if we can perform better than in our first match, so we have a gauge if we’re improving or not. No pressure because this is just pre-competition. Winning is just a reward; what matters is moving well and showing something on the court,” Roque explained.
Mac Bandiola led NU with 14 points, all from attacks, while Jan Abanilla chipped in seven.
