V-League: Altas erase 2-set deficit to stun Tamaraws

The Perpetual Help Altas celebrate a point against FEU in the 2024 V-League Men’s Collegiate Challenge at the Paco Arena in Manila, August 14, 2024. PVL Media

MANILA -- Perpetual Help rallied from a two-set deficit to score a dramatic reverse sweep of Far Eastern University in the 2024 V-League Men's Collegiate Challenge, Wednesday at the Paco Arena in Manila.

The Altas got their bearings after dropping the first two sets en route to a 23-25, 15-25, 26-24, 25-21, 15-6 triumph.

Now at 2-1, they are tied in the standings with the Tamaraws and the National University Bulldogs in the standings of the preseason tournament.

Altas head coach Sammy Acaylar attributed the comeback to a boost in confidence.

"Sabi ko sa kanila, ang skills nandiyan, the problem is yung emotion natin, yung confidence niyo sa sarili niyo so dapat ibalik yung confidence. Tingnan mo magbabago yan kapag nakakuha tayo ng isang set, tataas ang confidence natin," said Acaylar.

Several players stepped up for Perpetual Help, including Jefferson Marapoc, who contributed 19 points, 13 receptions, and eight digs. Tabuga added 14 points with four blocks, including three crucial ones in the fifth set, while Andrade chipped in 13 points. 

Middle blocker Jester Bornel came off the bench to fire 12 points, and John Castil made key contributions in the fifth set, finishing with seven points.

The Altas will seek their third consecutive win when they face the University of Santo Tomas Golden Spikers on Sunday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.

Dryx Saavedra led FEU with 14 points, while Doula Ndongala and Amet Bituin each scored 10. FEU will look to rebound against NU next Wednesday at the same venue.