By ADRIAN STEWART CO

The Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles put an end to a prolonged slide by overpowering the University of the East (UE) Lady Warriors, 25-23, 25-19, 29-27, in the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball at the University of Santo Tomas Quadricentennial Pavilion on Saturday, April 18.

After weeks of setbacks, the Blue Eagles rediscovered their rhythm behind the efforts of Negrenses Dona de Leon and Jihan Chautico, collecting just their second victory in 13 outings.

De Leon top-scored for the Blue Eagles with 14 points, on 11 attacks, two blocks and a service ace, while Chuatico and Ana Hermosura added 12 and 11 markers, respectively.

The result offers a measure of momentum as the Blue Eagles prepare for their final elimination-round assignment against the Far Eastern University (FEU) Lady Tamaraws at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday, April 22.

For UE, the defeat sealed another difficult chapter, as the squad wrapped up the season without a single win for the second straight year.

Khy Cepada led them with 18 markers.

Meanwhile, the Adamson University Lady Falcons secured a return to the Final 4 after sweeping FEU, 25-20, 25-22, 25-23.

The Lady Falcons wrapped up the elimination round with a 9-5 record, placing themselves in solo third as other Final 4 contenders continue their remaining assignments.

It marks the program’s first semifinal appearance since Season 85, when it claimed a bronze medal.

Adamson then underwent a rebuilding phase following a roster exodus, collecting just nine wins over the next two seasons combined.

Leading the charge was Shaina Nitura, who produced 18 points built on 12 attacks, four aces and two blocks, while contributing 10 receptions and six digs, while Frances Mordi added 12 markers.

On the other hand, FEU dropped to a 7-6 slate in fifth place and now faces a crucial match against Ateneo on Wednesday.

Gerzel Petallo paced FEU with 11 points, nine receptions and five digs./ASC, WDJ