DEFENDING champion De La Salle University outlasted Far Eastern University in four sets yesterday 25-21, 25-19, 21-25, 25-20 to force a winner-take-all Game 3 in the 2024 V-League Men’s Collegiate Challenge at the Philsports Arena.

Chris Hernandez led the scoring charge for the Green Spikers with a game-high 23 points – 17 on attacks, four blocks and two aces, along with 19 excellent receptions and five excellent digs.

Noel Kampton, who has just returned from Alas Men’s training camp in Italy, added nine crucial points.

“Added reinforcement para sa team. Kailangan pa niyang mag-adjust kasi bumalik lang siya yesterday. Hoping na itong remaining two days maka-adjust siya,” La Salle coach Jose Roque said of Kampton.

After losing the third set, the Green Spikers faced a stiff challenge in the fourth when FEU closed in at 21-18 but held their ground the rest of the way.

“Happy. Somehow, it paid off, lahat ng training and at the same time, ‘yun ‘yung gusto ng team—manalo. They played their best,” said Roque.

Glen Ventura contributed 12 points, all from attacks, while Joshua Magalaman chipped in nine points. Yoyong Mendoza and Eric Layug also made key contributions with seven points each.

The two teams clash in the deciding game tomorrow, Friday, at the same venue.

Dryx Saavedra led the way for FEU with 18 points on 16 attacks and two blocks while Lirick Mendoza and Talisayan added 11 and 10 points, respectively.