MANILA – Lyceum of the Philippines Lady Pirates clawed back from a set down to beat Mapua University Lady Cardinals, 25-20, 16-25, 21-25, 25-21, 15-6, in the NCAA Season 98 women’s volleyball on Tuesday at the San Andres Sports Complex in Manila.
Negrense Jewel Maligmat was hailed as the Player of the Game after tallying 14 points, on 10 attacks and four service aces, as the Lady Pirates kicked off their campaign on a winning note.
Jhona Dolorito spearheaded the offense for the Lady Pirates with 16 points, including five attacks, while veteran Venice Puzon contributed 18 excellent sets in the come-from-behind win.
Trailing two sets to one, the Lady Pirates were able to force a fifth set decider after a close 25-22 canto victory. The run continued in the fifth set as Lyceum scored nine straight points to turn a 6-5 lead into a 15-5 finish capped by Maligmat service ace.
“Honestly, this is a big game for us kasi dito namin madedetermine kung hanggang saan ‘yung kaya nila e,” said Lady Pirates head coach Cromwel Garcia. “The way na naglaro sila (vs Mapua), I think malayo ang mararating ng mga batang ‘to.”
Roxie Dela Cruz finished with 20 points, on 15 attacks and five service aces, while Vanessa Basas added 21 excellent digs for the Lady Cardinals, which dropped to 0-1 with the defeat.
Meanwhile, University of Perpetual Help System Dalta Lady Altas cruised to its second consecutive victory following a 25-23, 16-25, 25-14, 25-22 sweep of Jose Rizal University Lady Bombers.
Mary Rhose Dapol spearheaded the offense for the Lady Altas with 28 points, built on 19 attacks, eight service aces, and one block, while Marian Andal added 28 receptions and 23 digs.
After being beaten by the Lady Bombers in the second set, the Lady Altas bounced back with a dominant third set victory before pulling off a close fourth frame capped by Shaila Omipon’s smash.
“Napakalaking bagay, madadagdagan yung kumpyansa ng team ko. Wag masyado lalakas yung loob nila pero dapat andun pa din yung tiwala sa sarili,” said Lady Altas head coach Sandy Rieta./PN
