MANILA — Mapua University wrapped up its campaign in the 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge by beating Arellano University in an entertaining four-set affair, Saturday at the Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City.
The Cardinals are already out of contention with six losses, but made sure to exit on a high note by taking down the Chiefs, 26–24, 25–14, 17–25, 28–26.
Down three points and facing set point at 21–24, Ar-Jay Ramos and Sam Alcantara came alive to pull Mapua back into the match, sparking a 7–2 finishing run that secured the Cardinals the victory.
Ar-Jay Ramos and Sam Alcantara of Mapua during their game against Arellano in the 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge, September 19, 2026 at the Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City. PVL Media
"Kung ano yung natutunan nila sa past six games, gamitin nila dito sa last game nila. Wala namang mawawala sa kanila. Pero sabi ko nga, sa six games na yon alam ko na kaya naman namin yung ibang teams. Sabi ko, this time, baka naman, ipakita na nila," said coach Lorence Cruz, who took the reins in place of head coach Aying Esteban, who is currently with the University of Santo Tomas High School Boys' team in the UAAP.
Ramos led Mapua with 24 points, all coming from attacks, while also contributing four digs and 17 excellent receptions. However, it was Alcantara's breakthrough performance that proved decisive.
The outside hitter finished with 19 points on 13 attacks, five blocks, and one service ace, while also helping out defensively with six digs.
For Arellano, CJ Dominguito provided a late spark in the third and fourth sets, but his 13 points were not enough to prevent the Chiefs from falling to the hungry Cardinals.
Daniel Agovida and Jiwen Sinuto added 14 and 11 points, respectively, but Arellano dropped to a 2–4 record and now sits on the brink of elimination.
The Chiefs will look to keep their campaign alive when they face National University next Saturday, September 26, at 3 p.m., in what could be their final game of the season.