College of Saint Benilde finally broke through, stunning Arellano University in four sets, 23-25, 25-14, 30-28, 25-22, for its first win in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge on Saturday, August 30, at the Paco Arena Sports and Events Center in Manila.

The victory ended Benilde’s dry spell in the tournament and kept their campaign alive as the Blazers showed resilience in the crucial stretches of the match.

Motol Delivers the Clutch Finish

The Chiefs threatened to extend the battle to a decider. After middle blocker JV Estrada put Benilde at match point with a quick strike, Arellano fought back with four straight points to keep their hopes alive.

But Rocky Motol, who earlier committed back-to-back errors, redeemed himself by delivering the finishing blow — a perfectly placed shot over a triple block that sealed the match in one hour and 53 minutes.

“Sabi ko nga, the first thing, kaya kami sumali dito is maka-gain ng experience. Especially, majority ng players ko is going into second year, kailangan nating mag-mature pa,” said Blazers head coach Arnold Laniong.

“Besides ang mga kalaban mo, aminin natin na ‘yung mga nakalaban natin matataas talaga. Every time na makalaban natin mga UAAP, nothing to lose sa ‘tin, pero kailangang i-all out pa rin natin. Pero since ito NCAA, kumbaga ibang istorya. Kumbaga nasa isang tournament kami tayo niyan; hangga’t kayang talunin, talunin,” he added.

Balanced Effort Leads the Way

Motol spearheaded Benilde with 21 points off 18 attacks and three aces, while also tallying seven digs and 15 excellent receptions. He was clutch in the third and fourth sets, stepping up when it mattered most.

Kenneth Betco chipped in 14 points, while Mike Balbacal added nine, highlighted by four blocks.

Arellano actually drew first blood, with captain Jiwen Sinuto and AC Guinto leading a late charge to take the opening set. But that would be their last stand, as Benilde found its composure and clawed through pressure situations — none bigger than the extended third frame, where they outlasted the Chiefs, 30-28.

Sinuto paced Arellano with 20 points built on 19 attacks, while Guinto finished with 16 in a losing effort.