National University (NU) delivered a dramatic performance in the V-League Men’s Collegiate Championship, overcoming a significant deficit to defeat Ateneo in a five-set thriller at Paco Arena in Manila on Sunday. The Bulldogs staged an incredible comeback, rallying from an 18-23 deficit in the fourth set and a 1-5 hole in the decisive fifth set to secure a hard-fought 27-25, 16-25, 21-25, 27-25, 15-11 victory.

In a match filled with intense moments, Mac Bandola and Leo Aringo, Jr. emerged as key players, leading NU’s comeback and ending their losing streak. The win boosted the Bulldogs’ playoff hopes, improving their record to 3-2 in the eight-team league organized by Sports Vision.

NU assistant coach Jessie Lopez commented on the match’s significance, stating, “Games like these are where players improve their personalities and learn how to elevate their game in crucial moments.”

Despite the Bulldogs’ impressive comeback in the fourth set, the team appeared fatigued and struggled to find their rhythm early in the fifth set. Ateneo capitalized on this, taking a 5-1 lead. However, NU quickly regained their composure, leveling the score at 6-6 with a crucial block from Obed Mukaba. Mukaba’s pivotal blocks and Aringo’s consecutive aces propelled NU to a 10-7 lead.

A key moment came when Ateneo’s defense faltered, allowing NU to gain momentum. An Ateneo net violation brought NU to match point at 14-9. Although the Eagles saved two match points, Jan Abadilla clinched the victory for NU with a powerful spike, ending Ateneo’s hopes of a comeback.

The match saw NU rally from a five-point deficit in the fourth set to force a decisive fifth set with a 9-2 run. Despite a strong performance from Ateneo in the third set, outscoring NU 17-10 in attacks, the Bulldogs persisted and eventually took the opening set after a determined comeback from a four-point deficit (19-23).

Ateneo showcased their strengths in the second set with impressive serving and defense, including three aces and three blocks. However, despite the absence of key players Buds Buddin, Choi Diao, Jade Disquitado, Jade Ordiales, and head coach Dante Alinsunurin—who were on national team duty—NU managed to step up and perform admirably.

Bandola led the Bulldogs with 27 points from 26 attacks, while Aringo contributed 17 points, including 13 attacks and three aces. NU’s next challenge is a rivalry match against De La Salle University on September 4 at 5 p.m. Meanwhile, Ateneo, now at 1-4, will look to rebound against defending NCAA champions University of Perpetual Help System Dalta earlier that day at 3 p.m. Batas led Ateneo with 30 points, and Salarzon added 22 markers.