MANILA – University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons outdueled Lyceum of the Philippines University Lady Pirates, 25-16, 25-23, 15-25, 25-20, in the V-League Women’s Collegiate Challenge on Wednesday at the Paco Arena in Manila.
Nina Ytang shone with 16 points from 12 attacks and four blocks, while Kassandra Doering and Antiqueña Irah Jaboneta contributed 14 and 10 points, respectively, as the Fighting Maroons improved to a 2-1 win-loss slate.
After failing to close out the Lady Pirates in the third set, the Fighting Maroons leaned on Doering and Nica Celis in the decisive fourth set, leading the Fighting Maroons to their second consecutive win.
“It’s a positive note for us because, as you know, 70 percent of the UP lineup this year are rookies,” said UP head coach Oliver Almadro. “We’re happy that most of the rookies are delivering. We can use some of the rookies, but what we need is consistency and maturity.”
“There’s a tendency to relax or maintain a certain level, but I’m really challenging them that every game, every point, every set, the level should be going up every time. It’s still a learning process,” he added.
Heart Bio tallied 16 points from nine attacks, six blocks, and an ace, and Negrense Joan Doguna chipped in 10 points for the Lady Pirates, which dropped to 0-2 in the standings.
Meanwhile, National University Lady Bulldogs turned back Colegio de San Juan de Letran Lady Knights, 25-23, 25-21, 23-25, 25-11, to kickstart their campaign.
Kaye Bombita and Negrense Myrtle Escanlar stepped up offensively for the Lady Bulldogs in the absence of Mhicaela Belen, Alyssa Solomon, and Arah Panique due to their Alas Pilipinas commitments.
Bombita posted a game-high 19 points on 14 attacks, three aces, and two blocks, while Escanlar contributed 16 markers on 15 attacks and two aces for the debuting Lady Bulldogs.
“We still need maturity, especially with the rookies and less experienced players, so this win is a big boost for the team and their confidence,” said NU assistant coach Karl Dimaculangan./PN
