National University overpowered Adamson University, 25-20, 25-21, 25-21, to solidify its hold on the second spot in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s Volleyball Tournament on Sunday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.
The Lady Bulldogs notched their second straight win, improving their record to 8-3, while also completing a sweep of their elimination round head-to-head against the Lady Falcons. NU had previously defeated Adamson, 25-23, 25-19, 28-26, in the first round.
“This game is very important to us, kasi syempre important na ‘yung mga matches, and magandang way ito to pave the way for our next matches pa namin. We just have to continue training and preparing for our games,” said NU head coach Regine Diego.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
With Adamson staying close, trailing just 20-21 in the third set, Camilla Lamina turned to one of her most-trusted spikers, captain Vange Alinsug, to close out the match. NU secured the win in one hour and 26 minutes.
Alinsug hammered three points in a 4-1 run, including a smart off-speed hit from the pipe for match point, before serving up an ace to seal NU’s second consecutive triumph.
Lamina, who delivered 20 excellent sets, showcased why she is the league’s two-time Best Setter.
“Very happy ako sa ginagalaw ng team and siyempre crucial matches na po ‘yung mga natitirang games and mas magfo-focus lang talaga kami kung paano pa kami mag-i-improve,” said Lamina, who also contributed three points herself.
Alinsug led the Lady Bulldogs with 15 points on 12 spikes and three aces, along with seven receptions, while rookie Sam Cantada and Arah Panique added 12 points each. The middle blocker duo of Chams Maaya and Alexa Mata contributed six points apiece.
NU will next face winless University of the East on Sunday, again at the UST home floor.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
Adamson, meanwhile, fell to solo fifth place at 6-5, just behind fourth-running Far Eastern University at 6-4.
Last year’s Lady Falcons resurfaced as Shaina Nitura carried much of the load, tallying 23-of-44 kills and 18 excellent receptions.
Frances Mordi was limited to eight points and nine receptions, while Joy Aseo also added eight points.
Adamson will take on fellow Final Four contender University of Santo Tomas on Saturday at the Filoil Centre in San Juan.
