By ADRIAN STEWART CO

The National University (NU) Lady Bulldogs achieved their title-retention bid in the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament after a 25-19, 25-18, 25-19 sweep of the De La Salle University Lady Spikers in Game 2 of the finals at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Wednesday night, May 14.

Negrense libero Shaira Jardio stepped up for the Lady Bulldogs with a double-double of 21 excellent digs and 12 excellent receptions to be named co-finals MVP with Evangeline Alinsug.

Mhicaela Belen concluded her collegiate career with 18 points, 11 excellent digs and eight excellent receptions.

Alyssa Solomon added 13 as they guided the Lady Bulldogs to their third championship in the last four seasons.

The Lady Bulldogs started strong in the first set, quickly establishing a 10-3 lead before the Lady Spikers managed to close the gap to 11-16.

However, NU pulled ahead again, led by Solomon’s offense, to secure the first set at 25-19.

The momentum continued for the Lady Bulldogs in the second set, spearheaded by a series of points from Belen, who helped them achieve a 19-11 lead.

Although the Lady Spikers attempted to catch up, Belen responded with her attacks for a 2-0 set lead.

The Lady Spikers tried to tighten the game early in the third set, reaching 10-12, but the Lady Bulldogs broke free again with attacks from Alinsug and Belen for a 21-15 lead, ultimately sealing the championship.

“Sobrang thankful ako sa mga seniors kasi ‘yung chemistry na nabuo namin within eight months, sobrang bilis. ‘Yung leadership nila, especially Bella, talagang napakagaling niyang mag-handle ng team,” Lady Bulldogs head coach Sherwin Meneses said after the game.

Negrense Angel Canino led the Lady Spikers with 12 points, 15 excellent receptions and nine excellent digs, while Shevana Laput added 10 markers, including seven attacks./ASC, WDJ