Ateneo spikers prevail in LBC men's volley

MANILA, Philippines - Ateneo de Manila needed an extra set to turn back St. Benilde, 25-22, 25-13, 22-25, 28-26, in a scrambling start to its title campaign in the first LBC Men’s Volleyball League at the Ateneo Blu Eagle Gym in Loyola Heights, Quezon City over the weekend.

The high-leaping, power-hitting tandem of Duane Teves and Michael de Joya combined for 42 hits, half coming on attacks as the Eagles held off the Blazers at home in the tournament sponsored by LBC Hari ng Padala.

In high school action, Claret overpowered International School of Manila, 25-8, 25-18, while Xavier repulsed Colegio San Agustin, 25-21, 25-22.

Earlier, Javier Mantecon, LBC Hari ng Padala’s chief managing officer, and Freddie Infante of the organizing Metro Sports ushered in the first-ever edition of the tournament in inaugural rites.

Infante said the main goal of this tournament backed by Shakey’s, Toby’s Sports, Dunkin Donuts, Mikasa and Asics is to boost grassroots development in the sport.

The other teams seeing action in the tournament are Arellano U, Far Eastern U, University of the Philippines, National U, San Sebastian College, Claret, Santo Tomas, Xavier and Sta. Elena HS.