MANILA – National University Lady Bulldogs rebounded from a second set loss to defeat Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws, 25-17, 13-25, 25-17, 25-20 in the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Wednesday night.
Alyssa Solomon unloaded a game-high 25 points on 21 attacks, three blocks, and a service ace she complemented with seven digs to lead the Lady Bulldogs to a 4-1 win-loss mark.
Mhicaela Belen backed Solomon up with an all-around game of 19 points, 19 digs, and 11 excellent receptions, while Evangeline Alinsug added 16 points of her own for the Lady Bulldogs.
After badly losing to the Lady Tamaraws in the second set, 13-25, the Lady Bulldogs rebounded in the third frame behind Belen, Alinsug, and Solomon for a 25-17 set victory.
Then, in the fourth set, the Lady Tamaraws made their late push, but Solomon and Alinsug denied them by combining for four straight points to secure their fourth consecutive triumph.
Lady Bulldogs head coach Norman Miguel said they were anticipating a tough game against the Lady Tamaraws after the latter pushed the top-seed University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses to the limit last Sunday.
“Nag-prepare talaga kami for FEU kasi previous to this game, although natalo sila sa UST, but, obviously, they played a very good match, so hindi kami pwede magkaroon ng complacency,” Miguel said.
Gerzel Petallo got 17 points, 14 excellent receptions, and eight digs as the Lady Tamaraws fell to their second consecutive loss, sliding down to 2-3 win-loss record for fifth place.
Meanwhile, De La Salle University Lady Spikers (4-1) displayed their complete prowess as they overpowered University of the East Lady Warriors (1-4), securing a 25-21, 25-18, 25-10 victory.
Angel Canino showcased an exceptional performance, contributing 18 points with 17 attacks and a block, along with nine excellent digs and seven excellent receptions for the defending champion Lady Spikers./PN
