GRADE 11 standout Chollo Bustamante erupted for a game-high 17 points as the defending champion University of Perpetual Help Junior Altas avenged their first-round defeat to the Mapúa Red Robins with a four-set victory, 25-22, 25-23, 15-25, 26-24, in the final elimination round of the NCAA Season 101 Volleyball Fiesta Boys Division on Monday at the Arellano Gym.
Bustamante, a native of Alaminos, delivered a career-high performance with 16 attack points and one service ace. Klarens Taino added 16 points built on 13 attacks, two blocks and an ace, while Gabriel Macatuno chipped in 11 points along with two excellent receptions.
Setter Donald Sison contributed one block and 14 excellent sets, while libero JM Regorosa anchored the defense with seven digs and five receptions.
“Gustung-gusto talagang makabawi ng mga bata kasi tinalo sila ng Mapua sa first round in five sets. Kaya nagsipag sila at pampataas din ng moral papunta sa quarterfinals,” said coach Sandy Rieta.
The Red Robins nearly forced a deciding set after reaching match point at 24-22 in the fourth frame. But the Junior Altas responded with a decisive 4-0 run to seal the match behind the combined efforts of John Lat, Bustamante and Taino.
Roderick Medino exploded for 33 points for Mapua (Malayan High School of Science).
Both teams finished the elimination round with identical 11-2 records in Group A, although Paco-based Malayan dropped a point for a 33/32 quotient. Dennis Abrina
In Group B, the Letran Squires edged the Arellano Braves in five sets, 22-25, 25-22, 25-23, 25-27, 15-12, to clinch the top spot with an 11-2 mark, while the Braves settled for second at 10-3.
Meanwhile, teams from Group A—San Sebastian Staglets / EAC Brigadiers against San Beda Red Cubs, and Lyceum Junior Pirates against La Salle Green Hills Greenies—will battle in the play-in matches on March 19. The junior boys quarterfinals begin on March 23.
