30/08/2026
๐ฆ๐ฃ๐ข๐ฅ๐ง๐ฆ | Arellano University Chiefs came out victorious in the Menโs V-League 2026 Collegiate Challenge after surpassing the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Golden Spikers in an electrifying five-set match, 23-25, 25-22, 25-16, 13-25, 15-12. at Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City.
The match secured a bounce-back victory for the Chiefs after their loss from the pervious match, dealt by the De La Salle - College of Saint Benilde.
AU Chiefsโ Gabrielle Caculba emerged as Player of the Game, contributing two points, two aces, two digs, and 30 excellent sets. His playmaking stood out as he created Opportunities for the chiefs throughout the game.
The Golden Spikers took the first lead in the opening set, showcasing a thrilling rally between the opposing teams. In response, the Legarda-based squad fought back with powerful blocks and attacks, forcing a deadlock at 17-17.
Both teams were evenly matched, with the Golden Spikers eventually taking the first set, 25-23, to gain a 1-0 lead. Yet, the Arellano Chiefs answered back through incredible teamwork, leveling the match at 1-1 after claiming the second set, 25-22.
Following their strong performance, the AU chiefs showcased relentless strength in the third set, securing a commanding 25-16 victory. The set win maintained their momentum and regained the lead, 2-1.
The UST Golden Spikers took control in the fourth set, beating the Legarda-based squad, 25-13, forcing a deciding set and bring the match back to level terms.
In the last breathtaking set, the UST Golden Spikers started aggressively and dominated the court. Undeterred, the Arellano Chiefs countered their attacks and fought back point by point.
At the most crucial part of the game, with the score at 14-12, Arellano Chiefs head coach Carl Bryan Vitug delivered a different kind of coaching message during the timeout, reminding his players that they needed only one more point. โBasta may puso,โ he emphasized, stressing the importance of heart and determination in the closing moment. He also acknowledged that either team could still take the victory, as long as they played with heart.
After the timeout, USTโs De Vega stepped up to serve, but failed to convert the serve, giving the Chiefs the opportunity to close out the deciding set, 15-12, and complete their 3-2 comeback.
Story by Julius De Leon/AUTS