MANILA — Adamson University solidified its Final Four bid, tightening its grip on solo fourth place after a straight-sets demolition of University of the East, 25-15, 25-18, 28-26, in the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament on Saturday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.
The Lady Falcons leaned on a dominant all-around performance from Frances Mordi, who fired 18 points built on 16 attacks, one block, and one service ace, while Shaina Nitura chipped in 13 markers as Adamson improved to 6-4 and stayed within striking distance of second-running Far Eastern University and National University, both previously at 6-3.
Adamson notched its second straight victory, but not without resistance, as the Lady Falcons staged a dramatic comeback in the third set. Trailing 8-16, they unleashed a decisive rally to overturn the deficit and complete the sweep.
On the other hand, University of the East remained winless after 10 matches, officially bowing out of Final Four contention despite a 14-point effort from Khy Cepada.
In another match, National University bounced back in emphatic fashion, overpowering Ateneo de Manila University, 25-19, 25-16, 25-15, to climb to solo second place with a 7-3 record.
The Lady Bulldogs dictated the tempo from the opening serve, combining relentless offense with disciplined floor defense to keep Ateneo on the back foot throughout the contest.
Negrense standout Arah Panique paced NU with 13 points on 12 attacks and one block, while rookie Sam Cantada added 10 markers, including five excellent sets.
Setter Camille Lamina also made her presence felt with extended minutes, tallying 11 excellent sets along with three points.
NU’s cohesive play prevented Ateneo from gaining any rhythm, sealing the straight-sets victory without facing a serious threat.
Zel Tsunashima led the Blue Eagles with nine points, while rookie Dona Mae de Leon contributed eight markers as Ateneo dropped to a 1-9 record./PN
