MANILA, Philippines — The University of the East (UE) Red Warriors ended their UAAP Season 88 men’s volleyball campaign on a strong note after pulling off a surprise victory over Final Four-bound Ateneo de Manila University on Saturday.
UE, which had struggled throughout the season, showed resilience and determination as it frustrated the Blue Eagles in a hard-fought match to close its tournament run on a positive note.
Despite already securing a semifinal spot, Ateneo was unable to finish its elimination-round campaign with momentum, falling short against a UE squad that refused to go down without a fight.
The Red Warriors leaned on improved floor defense and timely scoring runs to outlast Ateneo, which struggled to find its rhythm at crucial stretches of the match.
The upset victory provided a morale boost for UE, which had been looking to salvage pride in a challenging season marked by inconsistent results.
For Ateneo, the loss serves as a late wake-up call heading into the Final Four, where they will face tougher opposition in their bid for a championship.
UE, meanwhile, closes its UAAP Season 88 campaign with renewed confidence, hoping to build on the momentum for the next season.
