MANILA – Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles secured a convincing 25-14, 25-20, 25-15 triumph over University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons in the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball on Sunday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Geezel Tsunashima displayed her offensive prowess as she finished with 16 points on 13 attacks and three blocks to go with six excellent digs as the Blue Eagles moved up to fifth place with a 3-6 win-loss slate.
According to Tsunashima, the Blue Eagles were playing inspired, especially after pushing league-leader University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses to the limit during their previous match last Wednesday.
“We hope to stay consistent, and we know that umaangat ‘yung level of play namin after our game against UST,” Tsunashima said. “Coming into the round two, we hope na maging mas happy kami (inside the court) and mas maging aggressive talaga kami.”
Sophia Beatriz Buena chipped in 11 markers, built on eight attacks, two service aces, and a block, while team captain Roma Mae Doromal ended with 13 excellent receptions and eight excellent digs.
Stephanie Bustrillo top-scored for the Fighting Maroons with eight points, while returning Nina Ytang and Antiquena Irah Anika Jaboneta contributed five markers apiece as they dropped to a 1-8 record.
Meanwhile, National University Lady Bulldogs bounced back from their first round defeat to the Golden Tigresses with a 23-25, 25-17, 25-21, 25-20 beating, handing the latter their first loss of the season.
Mhicaela Belen was hailed Player of the Game after finishing with 24 points, built on 21 attacks, two blocks, and a service ace, to go with 13 excellent digs as the Lady Bulldogs moved up to a 7-2 win-loss slate.
“Lahat talaga sa amin ginusto manalo in this game, and sabi ko nga sa teammates ko na wala pang talo ang UST kaya mas masarap manalo sa kanila,” Belen said in a post-game interview.
With the Golden Tigresses falling to an 8-1 win-loss record, it is now confirmed that the tournament’s semifinal format will be the traditional Final Four instead of the step-ladder format./PN
