De La Salle University celebrates against Letran in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge, August 23, 2025 at the Paco Arena Sports and Events Center in Manila. PVL Media
MANILA -- De La Salle University made it four wins in a row on Saturday by defeating Letran in four sets at the Paco Arena Sports and Events Center in Manila.
The Green Spikers recorded a 25-16, 25-22, 22-25, 25-20 win over the Knights to claim the solo lead in the men's division of the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge.
Chris Hernandez submitted an all-around performance in a reserve role, with 22 points off 17 kills -- including crucial hits that halted Letran's momentum. He also added three blocks, two aces, 10 digs, and 12 excellent receptions.
Meanwhile, Issa Ousseini contributed 19 points on 10 kills, eight blocks, and an ace.
"Siyempre happy because we managed to beat some of the teams pero somehow ang preparation naming is itong sa last three games eh. Looking forward na ma-cover naming 'yung mga flaws naming, 'yung mga kulang naming. And at the same time, maging solido pa 'yung galawan ng team," said head coach Jose Roque.
"Somehow nagko-comply 'yung team; somehow focused sila. Maybe because of how we prepared na we're doing alright talaga, na sabihin nating may direksyon. 'Yung challenge is itong next three games," he added.
The Green Spikers will begin that final stretch of eliminations against University of Santo Tomas (3-1) on Tuesday at noon.
Letran showed signs of life by countering De La Salle's offense with their own firepower, but their 29 unforced errors ultimately cost them, leaving the Knights with a 1-3 win-loss record.
Chester Amborsio gave Letran the lead midway through the fourth set, but Ousseini and the Green Spikers responded decisively. Amborsio finished with 15 points to lead Letran, while Bembem Bautista and Dave Lardizabal added 10 and nine markers, respectively.
The Knights will seek their second win when they face National University (2-2) in Tuesday’s opening game at 10 a.m.