The former NCAA women’s volleyball champions welcomed back former assistant coach and NCAA champion coach Macky Cariño with a victory.
The Las Pinas-based Perpetual Help Lady Altas fended off a severely shorthanded Lyceum of the Philippines University Lady Pirates squad in three sets, to open their season with a win, Sunday early afternoon at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
Middle hitter Lourdes Clemente paced the Lady Altas with 14 points off eight attacks, four blocks, and two aces.
The maroon-shirts relied on their height and speed advantage to dominate the Lady Pirates on all fronts. The Lady Altas had a 32-25 lead on attacks, as well as a seven to three spread on blocks. The side also pounced on the opponent’s floor defense with 11 service aces.
Head coach Cariño was pleased with how the ladies responded to the sudden health concern suffered by starting opposite hitter Jhona Rosal. “Buti na lang yung team, nag-train ng maayos. Ready for such incidents” he said.
The former Alta was overall satisfied. “I’m impressed,” he exclaimed. “But there is still more to learn.”
Christine Miralles led Lyceum with nine points.
The Lady Altas (1-0) will battle the San Beda College (1-0) on Thursday, January 11. Earlier that day, the Lady Pirates (0-1) will square off with the Lady Blazers (1-0).
The Scores:
UPHSD 3 – Clemente 14, Imbo 13, Tripoli 10, Verzosa 7, Gual 3, Umandal 3, Sangalang 0, Llorente 0, Estanislao 0, Medalla L.
LPU 0 – Miralles 9, Juanillo 7, Sevilla 7, Patio 5, Bongabong 5, Marcella L, Romanban L.
