MANILA – Ateneo de Manila University Lady Eagles get back on the winning track in the UAAP Season 81 women’s volleyball with a 25-16, 28-25, 25-17 win over Adamson University Lady Falcons on Wednesday night at San Juan Arena.
Kat Tolentino top-scored with 17 points while co-captain Madeleine Madayag added 13 from nine attacks, three blocks, and an ace for the Lady Eagles, which solidified its hold on the top spot of the standings with 11-2 card.
The victory also allowed the Lady Eagles to clinch a twice-to-beat advantage in the semifinals round with still a game left in the eliminations against also-ran University of the East Lady Warriors.
After easily winning the first set, the Lady Eagles encountered trouble in the second frame where the Lady Falcons nearly snatch the set at 24-23. But hits from Madayag and Pauline Gaston allowed Ateneo to take the set.
The Lady Eagles regained its form in the third period as it cruised to a 20-15 advantage allowing Ateneo head coach Oliver Almandro to insert his rookies Jaja Maraguinot, Erika Raagas and Vannie Gandler and finish the match.
“Our game today tested our mental toughness. Whatever it is, whatever ang ibigay na role, they will do execute and do their job properly,” Almandro said.
Chiara Permentilla and Bernadette Flora each managed nine points for the Lady Falcons, which dropped to 1-12 and will finish their elimination round campaign against University of the Philippines Lady Maroons./PN
