By ADRIAN STEWART CO
The National University (NU) Lady Bulldogs regained their winning momentum after sweeping the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles, 25-18, 25-18, 25-15, in the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Sunday, March 8.
Negrense Arah Panique tallied 10 markers to back up fellow veteran Evangeline Alinsug, who top-scored with 18 points, on 14 attacks, three blocks and a service ace, as the Lady Bulldogs improved to a 5-1 mark.
Rookie Samantha Cantada made her return to the lineup after sitting out NU’s previous game due to a right shin injury she sustained late last month.
She finished with six points, seven excellent receptions and one excellent dig.
NU showed its dominance early, dictating the tempo in all three sets and keeping Ateneo on the defensive throughout the contest.
The Lady Bulldogs maintained steady attacks and solid floor coverage to prevent the Blue Eagles from mounting any serious comeback.
Ilongga Ana Hermosura and Negrense Dona Mae de Leon tallied seven markers apiece for the Blue Eagles, which remained winless after six matches.
Meanwhile, the Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws continued their strong run after defeating the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons, 25-13, 25-21, 25-16.
The Lady Tamaraws displayed control throughout the match, using a balanced attack and steady defense to overpower the Fighting Maroons and secure their third consecutive victory.
Alyssa Devosora top-scored for the Lady Tamaraws with 15 points.
Gerzel Petallo and Clarisse Loresco added 12 and 11, respectively, as they moved into solo third place with a 4-2 mark.
Meanwhile, Negrense Joan Marie Monares paced the Fighting Maroons with eight points, while Niña Ytang and Kianne Olango added six markers apiece as they slipped to a 3-2 mark.
The match saw UP suffer a scare after transferee Casiey Dongallo appeared to hurt her left leg following an awkward landing late in the opening set.
She ended the match with four markers./ASC, WDJ