ATENEO de Manila University survived against De La Salle University in five sets, 22-25, 25-19, 26-28, 25-20, 15-13, to forge a triple tie for third in the UAAP Season 85 men's volleyball tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday.
The Blue Eagles' victory forced a three-way logjam at third place between them, the Green Spikers, and Far Eastern University at 7-6.
"We're thankful na kahit papaano buhay pa rin kami pero like what I've keep on telling them, medyo mahirap yung magiging process namin just to get a shot at the Final Four," said Ateneo head coach Timmy Sto. Tomas.
"So at least kahit papaano, tinrabaho nila today yung panalo so I'm very happy na everyone responded well sa challenge sa kanila," the former Blue Eagle added.
Noel Kampton and Vince Maglinao willed De La Salle back from a 22-24 deficit before Billie Anima dominated in the extension, blocking Jian Salarzon on back-to-back plays to give them the 2-1 set advantage, 28-26.
But the Blue Eagles showed they wanted a fifth set by starting the fourth with a statement 10-2 opener en route to the 25-20 equalizer.
The Green Spikers climbed back from a 13-8 hole in the fifth with four straight points, but Ken Batas went off-the-block in the ensuing play to send Ateneo to match point, 14-12.
Anima retaliated with a quick kill before Salarzon said enough by drilling another off-the-block kill for the Blue Eagles' win.
Batas ruled with 30 points on 28 attacks and two blocks, along with six digs, while Salarzon chimed in with 21 points and 15 excellent receptions.
Abai Llenos also added 12 points, while Lance De Castro notched 14 receptions and nine digs.
Kampton led the Green Spikers with 21 points and 16 receptions, while Maglinao and JM Ronquillo chipped in with 17 points each, with Maglinao making 16 receptions.
De La Salle and Ateneo will be back on Saturday, with the former clashing with the University of the East, while the latter faces National University.