The De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) Blazers prevailed over the Mapua University (MU) Cardinals, 3-1, locking in a second runner-up finish in the NCAA Season 100 Men’s Volleyball Tournament today, June 11, at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.

The Benilde Blazers had an early lead in the opening set with Rocky Motol and Raymond Betco leading the 7-2 offensive surge. The Cardinals launched a quick recovery effort, trimming down the cushion into a close battle, but the Taft squad escaped with a 26-24 finish. 

Donning the red and gold jerseys, Ar-Jay Ramos, Barbie San Andres, and Olsen Jamisola found their rhythm and dominated the men in green and white in the second set, 8-25. 

As an answer, the Blazers replicated their early lead in the first set with Mike Balbacal and James Marasigan ensuring a comfortable lead to snatch the next set, 25-20.

The Intramuros squad had an early advantage at the start of the fourth set with attacks from Jamisola penetrating the defense of the Taft Squad. However, Benilde closed the gap at 12-12, ensuring a nail-biting set with drop balls from Adrian Austero. Ramos and San Andres attempted to break away from the tight contest, but Marasigan sent double service aces all the way from Taft. Ultimately, the Blazers got the upper hand with Betco claiming the match point and secured their bronze medal finish, 25-23.

Austero was recognized as the Best Middle Blocker, while Motol was awarded as the Best Outside Spiker, Rookie of the Year, and the Most Valuable Player of the Season. 

Set Scores:

Benilde Blazers: 26-24, 8-25, 25-20, 25-23