Defending back-to-back champions University of the Philippines move a win away from another postseason appearance after dismantling the Adamson University Lady Falcons, 5-0, Saturday afternoon at the Rizal Memorial Badminton Hall.
Poca Alcala put on a show in the first singles match as she pummeled Lizette Dela Cueva, 21-18, 21-14. It only took the Maroon newbie 18 minutes to wrap up the match in convincing fashion.
In the second singles match, Adamson’s Clydel Pada fought toe-to-toe with Gelita Castilo in the opening game. Pada got to game point first, before errors from the Lady Falcon conceded the frame to Castilo at 22-20. The second game was totally different as Castilo outhustled her way into the frame and the match, 21-13.
UAAP Season 77 Most Valuable Player Jessie Francisco and last year’s Rookie of the Year Lea Inlayo reunited in their first doubles match together this season. The tested UP pair did not disappoint as they cruised past Mika Aquino and Alyssa San Pedro in two quick games, 21-11, 21-5, to clinch the defending champs’ fourth straight win of the season.
Marina Caculitan impressed in her season debut with Ann Marañon in the second doubles match, winning it at 21-14, 21-13, against Pada and Christine Garin. On her part, Jeline Masongsong shook off a rusty start to win her first match of the year in three grueling sets, 17-21, 22-20, 22-20.
The Lady Maroons (4-0) look to seal their fourth straight Final 4 appearance against the Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws (2-2) tomorrow. The Lady Falcons (1-3) battle the University of Santo Tomas Tigresses (1-3).
