La Salle Green Spikers Clinch First Semis Slot in V-League Collegiate Challenge

Sports | Volleyball Posted on 2025-08-31 03:12:31

MANILA – De La Salle University secured the first semifinal berth in the V-League Collegiate Challenge after outlasting defending champion Far Eastern University (FEU) in a thrilling five-set showdown, 29-27, 25-14, 12-25, 21-25, 15-13, Saturday night at the Paco Arena Sports and Events Center.

Cameroonian middle blocker Issa Ousseini powered La Salle with 23 points built on 19 attacks, three blocks, and a service ace, steering the Green Spikers to their fifth consecutive win.

Chris Hernandez added 16 points, anchored by 13 attacks, two blocks, and one ace, while also tallying 21 excellent receptions. La Salle next faces archrival Ateneo de Manila University (3-2) on Sept. 6 at 12 p.m.

In the deciding fifth set, with the score locked at 13-all, skipper JJ Rodriguez denied Mikko Espartero with a crucial block before Eugene Gloria sealed the match with a spike, wrapping up the two-hour, 29-minute battle.

Coach Jose Roque credited his team’s chemistry, saying: “Maybe one thing that works now is the fact that we’re young, so they seem united. There’s no seniority; they see it as one team and understand each other.”

Despite the loss, FEU showed grit as Dryx Saavedra and Espartero sparked a rally in the third and fourth sets. Saavedra tallied 21 points on 19 attacks and two blocks, while Lirick Mendoza added 17 points, including seven blocks. Amet Bituin finished with 12 points, and Espartero delivered nine points alongside 15 excellent receptions and seven digs.

The loss marked FEU’s first setback in four outings, while La Salle cemented its place as the first team through to the semifinals.

NPO News Team I PNA-PR

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