Though suffering their first set loss of the season, defending champions Arellano University Lady Chiefs still snapped the Jose Rizal University Lady Bombers’ two game winning streak and remained unbeaten in NCAA Season 93, 25-11, 22-25, 25-18, 25-16, at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
Coming into the game having won all their matches this season in straight sets, Arellano shockingly surrendered a loss in the second set. With his team trailing for the entire set, Arellano head coach Obet Javier knew such a setback was inevitable and it was up to his team to regain momentum.
“Maganda din talaga ang simula ng JRU noong second set tapos hindi kami agad nakabangon. Nakita din talaga doon ‘yung mga kailangan pa naming ayusin,” said Javier. “Sabi ko sa kanila na pinakita na nila ‘yung mababa nilang laro, kailangan ipakita din nila na kaya nilang maka-recover.”
The Lady Chiefs responded immediately, dumping the Lady Bombers in a 13-6 hole in the third set, then a 15-6 gap in the fourth frame to close the match convincingly.
Last season’s breakout star Regine Arocga topped the Lady Chiefs with 20 points while Season 92 Finals MVP Jovielyn Prado added 17.
The Lady Chiefs (4-0) look to continue their winning ways when they face the Lyceum of the Philippines University (1-2) on Sunday at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
JRU captain Shola Alvarez continued her offensive hot-streak, grabbing 19 points. Rookie Dolly Versoza tallied 12 markers.
JRU (2-2) takes on the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA (2-1) also on Sunday.
The Scores
AU (3) – Arocha 20, Prado 17, Esguerra 12, Ebuen 11, Marzan 10, Ramirez 5, Bello 1, Donato 1, Verutiao 1, Balanoba 0, Buemia (L), Flores (L)
JRU (1) – Alvarez 19, Versoza 12, Montojo 10, Rivera 3, Bodiongan 3, Ebuenga 2, Bautista 0, Bondoc 0, Sibangan 0, Macaraya (L)
