The defending champion National University Bulldogs are confident that they will be able to retain their crown in the 81st University Athletic Association of the Philippines men’s volleyball tournament.
Their experience in being in the championship round over the last seven years is expected to bring them through.
Coach Dante Alinsunurin said this after the Bulldogs bounced back from a slow start to repulse the Far Eastern University Tamaraws , 21-25, 25-23, 25-23, 25-18.
This put the Bulldogs a win closer to the crown at the end of Game 1 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
“Malaking tulong ang championship experience ng team,” said Alinsunurin.
Season MVP Bryan Bagunas agrees, saying that they now have the tempo take the crown again.
“Para sa akin, nasa amin na ang tempo. Nandu’n na kami,” said Bagunas.
Bagunas eked 18 points and 13 excellent receptions for the Bulldogs, who will meet the Tams in Game 2 at 12 noon on Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Teammates Kim Malabunga and Madz Gampong added 10 points each during the game.
So far, the Bulldogs have not been beaten after 15 games since the eliminations.
