MANILA — De La Salle University moved on the brink of reclaiming the UAAP women’s volleyball championship after dismantling defending champion National University in straight sets, 25-23, 25-18, 25-18, in Game 1 of the Season 88 Finals at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Behind a dominant all-around performance from Angel Canino, the Lady Spikers seized control of the best-of-three championship series and can now capture their 13th UAAP women’s volleyball crown in Game 2 this afternoon.
Canino delivered 17 points built on 15 attacks, one block, and one service ace while also contributing nine excellent digs and five excellent receptions as La Salle showed no signs of rust despite a 16-day layoff entering the Finals.
Mary Shane Reterta backed her up with 11 points along with 23 excellent receptions and nine excellent digs, while Amie Provido and Shevana Laput chipped in 12 and 11 points, respectively.
“Happy ako kasi ‘yung mga bata talaga today nag-step up din. Lahat talaga naipakita ng team na kung sino man ang ipasok, kayang mag-contribute. I think that’s one of the best things na nangyari ngayong game na ito,” said Canino.
The Lady Spikers weathered a tough opening-set challenge after trailing, 14-19, before launching a furious comeback anchored by Provido, Reterta, Lilay del Castillo, and Canino to steal the set, 25-23.
La Salle then rode the momentum to dominate the next two frames, overwhelming the Lady Bulldogs with steady floor defense and efficient attacking.
“Mabagal ‘yung start namin and eventually nung latter part na ng set, naka-adjust na ‘yung team at nakasabay na sa ganong klaseng labanan at na-handle ang pressure,” said Lady Spikers head coach Ramil de Jesus.
“Maganda para sa amin kasi nung natapos ang second round bugbog kami sa laro eh, kinailangan ng team ‘yun at naging advantage namin siguro ‘yun,” he added, referring to the team’s two-week break before the Finals.
Arah Panique paced the Lady Bulldogs with 18 points, while Evangeline Alinsug contributed 11 markers as defending champion NU fell behind in the series.
Game 2 is set this afternoon at the same venue, with the Lady Spikers aiming to complete the sweep and end their title drought./PN
