MANILA — De La Salle University remained the team to beat in the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament as the Lady Spikers preserved their unbeaten run with a commanding 25-15, 25-20, 25-19 sweep of the University of the East Lady Warriors on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The victory pushed La Salle to a perfect 5-0 record, with the Lady Spikers drawing added firepower from the return of Shevana Laput, who immediately made her presence felt after missing the team’s previous two games.
Laput delivered nine points built on eight attacks and one block, providing a timely boost as La Salle continued to showcase its depth and dominance early in the season.
Angel Canino once again led the Lady Spikers’ offense with 12 points while also contributing eight excellent digs and six excellent receptions. Kathrina Del Castillo added 10 markers as La Salle controlled the match from start to finish.
The Lady Spikers dictated the tempo from the opening set, relying on their balanced attack and solid floor defense to keep the Lady Warriors at bay and secure the straight-sets victory.
Khy Cepada carried the fight for UE with 14 points, while Bea Zamudio chipped in nine. However, the Lady Warriors remained winless after six matches in the tournament.
In the other game, Adamson University pulled off a major upset after sweeping the University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses, 27-25, 25-22, 25-12.
Shaina Nitura spearheaded the Lady Falcons with 22 points on 19 attacks and three blocks, while Frances Mordi delivered a double-double performance of 20 points and 10 excellent receptions.
The victory lifted Adamson to a 3-2 record, tying Far Eastern University for fourth place in the standings.
Regina Jurado led UST with 18 points, while rookie Avril Bron added 10. Angeline Poyos was limited to just five points as the Golden Tigresses slipped to a 2-3 record./PN
