Lions stop Chiefs in LBC men's volley

MANILA, Philippines - San Beda fought back from two sets down then outlasted Arellano U in the decider to hack out a 14-25, 24-26, 25-21, 26-24, 15-11 victory in the seniors division of the LBC Men’s Volleyball League over the weekend.

The Lions came roaring back behind the power-hitting troika of Brenzo Capate, Jay Loria and Gilbert Ablan, who combined for 47 hits as the Mendiola-based squad bounced back into contention with a 2-2 card.

San Beda also dealt Arellano U’s first setback after the Chiefs opened with back-to-back victories in Seniors B of the league sponsored by LBC Hari ng Padala.

Capate powered his way to 14 kills and came through with five blocks while Loria unloaded 12 hits of his own and backed Capate in net defense with four blocks. Ablan rammed in a seven-kill binge to help the Lions carve out the win.

 In juniors play, University of Santo Tomas overpowered Mayamot National High School, 25-14, 25-21, to remain unscathed in the tournament backed by Shakey’s Pizza, Toby’s Sports, Dunkin Donuts, Mikasa and Asics.

Gyro Garcia scored 12 hits and made six blocks while setter Angelo Tiongson kept the team’s offense flowing as the Tiger Cubs seized the solo lead in Juniors B with a 2-0 slate.

UST, which also repulsed Claret, 25-14, 25-23, last week also handed Mayamot High its first loss after scoring two straight wins.

Meanwhile, action in the revival of men’s volley resumes tomorrow with three varsity matches, including the Far Eastern U-Perpetual Help-Laguna clash, at the Ateneo gym.

The Tams seek their third straight win in Seniors A in the 5 p.m. main game. Other games pit UP versus Arellano at 2 p.m. and National U versus San Beda at 3:30 p.m.