MANILA — De La Salle University stamped its dominance in UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball after overpowering defending champion National University, 25-21, 25-19, 19-25, 25-17, to complete a first-round sweep and remain unbeaten at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
The Lady Spikers imposed their tempo early and finished strong to improve to a pristine 7-0 record, solidifying their position as the team to beat heading into the second round of the eliminations.
Shevana Laput spearheaded La Salle’s relentless attack with 19 points built on 15 attacks, three blocks, and a service ace, while also contributing eight excellent digs in an all-around performance.
Negrense standout Angel Anne Canino delivered a double-double of 14 points and 10 excellent receptions, while Amie Provido added 12 points and nine excellent digs as La Salle showcased both offensive firepower and defensive stability.
La Salle looked poised for a straight-sets victory after taking the first two sets, but NU mounted a fightback in the third frame to extend the match.
The Lady Spikers, however, quickly reasserted control in the fourth set, exploding to a commanding 15-3 start that effectively shut down any hopes of a comeback and sealed the win.
Rookie Samantha Cantada led the Lady Bulldogs with a double-double of 13 points and 14 excellent receptions, while Chams Maaya chipped in 10 markers as NU dropped to a 5-2 record.
In another match, Adamson University completed its first-round campaign with a dominant 25-18, 25-15, 25-19 sweep over the University of the Philippines.
The Lady Falcons dictated the pace throughout the contest, combining efficient offense with disciplined floor defense to secure the straight-sets victory and improve to a 4-3 record, tying Far Eastern University and University of Santo Tomas.
Frances Mordi led Adamson with 17 points, while Shaina Nitura added 14 markers.
For UP, Fina Ali finished with eight points, while Joan Marie Monares and another teammate contributed seven points each as the Fighting Maroons slipped to 3-4./PN
