MANILA – Rookie Sam Cantada delivered a career-best performance as National University clawed back from two set deficits to outlast University of the Philippines, 24-26, 25-17, 21-25, 25-18, 15-8, and strengthen its title defense in the UAAP Season 88 Women’s Volleyball Tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Cantada erupted for 32 points, anchoring the Lady Bulldogs’ comeback while also contributing 18 excellent receptions and 13 excellent digs in a standout all-around effort that powered NU to a 6-2 win-loss record.
Arah Panique provided crucial offensive support with 19 markers as the defending champions avenged their first-round loss to the Fighting Maroons and snapped back into the win column.
NU seized full control in the deciding fifth set, breaking away from a tight 9-6 edge behind Cantada’s steady scoring and composed play to complete the comeback victory.
Jelai Gajero led UP with 22 points and 14 excellent digs, while Kianne Olango added 20 markers. Bienne Bansil and Niña Ytang chipped in 13 points apiece as the Fighting Maroons dropped to a 3-5 slate.
Meanwhile, Far Eastern University opened its second-round campaign with a commanding 25-11, 25-15, 25-22 sweep of University of the East.
The Lady Tamaraws dictated the pace from the outset, overwhelming the Lady Warriors in the first two sets before fending off a late resistance in the third to complete the straight-sets victory and improve to 5-3.
Melody Pons contributed nine points built on six attacks, two blocks, and a service ace, while adding nine excellent digs and five excellent receptions in a solid two-way performance.
Faida Bakanke led FEU with 14 points from 12 attacks and two blocks, while Jazlyn Ellarina chipped in 11 markers.
UE, meanwhile, remained winless through eight games, with Khy Cepada pacing the Lady Warriors with 15 points./PN
