Despite getting their first win in the UAAP Season 81 Women’s Volleyball Tournament, the Ateneo de Manila University Lady Eagles still had their weaknesses exposed against the University of Santo Tomas.
The Lady Eagles overwhelmed the Golden Tigresses at the net, tallying 12 blocks to UST’s five. But Ateneo were out-performed on attacks (37-46) and absorbed 12 aces after giving up 15 against La Salle.
Ateneo feasted on UST’s errors, as the Tigresses surrendered 36 to their 23.
Compared to their match against La Salle, Ateneo also saw more contributions from their graduating co-captain Maddie Madayag, who recovered from her five-point dud with a 15 point outing off nine attacks and six blocks.
“Like what everybody was saying, hindi ‘yun’yung laro namin.
“Siguro nagising kami kasi UAAP na. Noong first game na, ‘di siya agad nag-sink in and then nagka-first game jitters. I guess pagdating ng training we were really focused na,” the 5-foot-11 middle blocker said of her rejuvenated play.
Most glaringly, Ateneo have yet to see major performances from their open hitters. Ateneo’s trio of wingers Ponggay Gaston, Jules Samonte, and Vanie Gandler combined for 11 points against UST – also their total combined tally against La Salle.
For a team that struggles on the first touch, having open hitters ready to salvage transition attacks will be key for Ateneo.
“We’re still working on the consistency of our open spikers. But the good thing about it is ready silang tatlo kung first six sila or huhugutin sila. Kung may magkakamali, may bubuhat,” said the 21-year-old spiker.
In the meantime, Madayag is prepared to provide offense as her other teammates find their groove.
“Hindi naman. We just did our role kasi my role is to lead the team also. If leading the team requires my scoring, why not, di ba? Whatever I can do, I’ll do it.”
