Jaja Santiago’s Saitama got one back against Hisamitsu with a gritty four-setter, 25-27, 25-21, 25-15, 25-22, Sunday in the 2021-22 Japan V.League Division 1 women’s tournament at the Panasonic Arena in Osaka.
The 6-foot-5 Filipina bounced back after her no-block performance yesterday, answering with 11 points including three blocks.
After a close opening frame that saw the Springs take it, 27-25, Ageo Medics came back with a bang.
Saitama tied the match at one set apiece with a 25-21 second period. Then it stamped its class in the third, 25-15.
The biggest factor for Ageo Medics was Brazilian import Lorenne Teixeira, who has been quiet the entire tournament. She went off for 26 points on 23 attacks, two service aces, and a block.
Usual local support was there also with Mami Uchiseto and Yuka Sato tallying 18 points apiece.
Ageo Medics climbed back to .500 at 4-4, good for seventh, while handing Hisamitsu its second loss in eight outings.
Asuka Hamamatsu and Yuka Imamura led the charge for the Springs with 13 points each. Meanwhile, Miyu Nakagawa chimed in 12.
On the other hand, Hisamitsu top scorer Arisa Inoue did not suit up.
Saitama gets the next week off and will get back in action on Nov. 20 against Denso at 12:00 NN.
