MANILA, Philippines – Emilio Aguinaldo College survived a fierce challenge put up by upset-conscious San Beda and eked out a pulsating 21-25, 25-21, 25-20, 23-25, 15-10 victory on Monday to set in motion its back-to-back title bid in the 91st NCAA men's volleyball tournament at The Arena in San Juan City.
Reigning MVP Howard Mojica unleashed a game-best 31 hits, 24 coming on kills, five on service aces and the other two on blocks as he helped propel the Generals, who bested the St. Benilde Blazers last season to clinch their first volleyball championship, to their first victory.
Keith Melliza provided the much-needed support and scattered 18 points including 17 off spikes.
Given little chance to win after it didn't even make the Final Four a year ago, San Beda surprised everyone as it gave the defending champion a scare by stealing the opening set and eventually forcing a decider.
And then the power-spiking Mojica, who is also the team captain, took over and delivered the decisive kills in the final set.
Perpetual Help, the former champion two years ago, likewise got off to a strong start after it steamrolled San Sebastian, 25-19, 25-20, 25-19.
Rey Tano, Jr. and Manuel Doliente fired seven hits apiece while skipper Bonjomar Castel, Jon Patrick Ramos and Neil Barry Ytorzaita combined for 17 to help seal the win for the Sammy Acaylar-mentored Altas.
Arellano U also grabbed an early share of the lead after it edged a feisty Letran with a come-from-behind 20-25, 21-25, 25-20, 25-19, 15-12 win.