In its first two matches of the UAAP Season 82 Women’s Volleyball Tournament, National University has already established itself as one of the league’s potent scoring units.
With Risa Sato’s return, the on-court presence of Margot Mutshima, and the growth of Audrey Paran and Ivy Lacsina among others, the Lady Bulldogs have gained more fuel to crank up their offensive machine.
“Mataas ‘yung attack percentage namin since we have attackers like Risa Sato, Audrey Paran, Margot Mutshima and Ivy,” Jennifer Nierva said moments after NU’s sweep of Adamson on Sunday.
“Actually lahat na, very reliable.”
Still, nothing brings out the best in NU’s arsenal better than solid floor coverage.
Nierva feels that the Lady Bulldogs have reinvigorated their desire to deliver on the defensive end, knowing that their hitters are more than capable of scoring at a high clip.
“So mas nakaka-inspire, mas nagsisipag kami rumeceive at dumepensa kasi we know na naco-contribute into point,” the sophomore libero beamed.
At the forefront of their defensive schemes, Nierva has been providing the safety net for the Lady Bulldogs. She has produced double-double outputs off digs and receptions on a consistent basis, all the while handing out cues in patrolling the floor.
This has given her a huge sense of responsibility to lead. But the 23-year-old Nierva, of course, is not one to shy away from such duty.
“Noong first game, kaya nga napaos ako ngayon kasi feeling ko naubos noong game one noong UST kasi five sets,”the charismatic defensive specialist shared of her vocal manner of leadership.
But Nierva would be the first to point out that she still has plenty to offer. Be it leadership, assertiveness, or performance, she’s more than willing to get better in every facet of her game as the season goes along.
“Pero today’s game, ‘di pa ko happy sa laro ko kasi I know there’s more. But then, siyempre one game at a time. ‘Di mo naman everyday maganda laro mo,” she stressed.
“Pero next game kukunin ko pa rin ulit ‘yung leadership. And then kailangan ako yung magpapakita ng tapang eh, kasi ‘yung ka-partner ko sa passing is rookie, so ‘yun po.”
With a hard-nosed defensive approach and a scoring potential that can rival the league’s best, expect the Lady Bulldogs to continue making a spirited title run this season.
