By: Rylie San Juan
The Colegio de San Juan de Letran Knights bowed to the Benilde Blazers after five intense sets 21-25, 25-22, 22-25, 25-20, 13-15, yesterday, March 24 at the NCAA Season 101 Men’s Volleyball Tournament Semifinals held at the San Andres Sports Complex, Manila.
Vince Himzon shined for the Knights, tallying 20 points with 15 attacks and five blocks. Bembem Bautista and Dave Lardizabal weren’t far behind as they churned in 17 point and 16 points respectively.
The intensity was cranked to eleven in the opening minutes of the match. Benilde drew first blood after taking the first set, while Letran instantly struck back, claiming the following frame to tie the match at one set apiece.
The third set saw more intensity as both teams were eager to take the lead. An early advantage from the Blazers was erased by the Knights, courtesy of back-to-back attacks by Bautista, followed by a block point. Benilde was quick to fire back, securing a seven-point cushion and taking set point. A 4-0 run from the Knights trimmed the Blazers’ lead to three, but the comeback attempt was unsuccessful as Benilde secured set three at 22-25.
Himzon was on fire to open the following round, scoring four straight points to get Letran’s offense going. The Blazers kept the match close, answering each point scored by the Knights. Himzon’s attacks kept on pouring, singlehandedly carrying Letran on the offensive end. An 11-1 run from the Knights placed them firmly in the driver’s seat, reaching set point and forcing a decider in set five.
Dave Lardizabal went off in the deciding set, contributing both attacks and blocks to keep Letran in the match. Bautista and Himzon’s aggressive spikes went unanswered by Benilde, but the Blazers stayed close in the scoring department. A 13-11 lead by Letran was diminished as the Blazers were successful in their comeback attempt, taking game one of the best of three semifinals.
Reymark Betco recorded a scorching 37 points to lead the Blazers to victory. Rocky Motol was also present in the scoring department, ending the game with 21 points and 40 successful receptions, while Mike Balbacal chipped in 14 points.