University of the East finally stopped its six-game slide by beating Adamson University, 26-24, 23-25, 25-18, 25-20, for its second win in the UAAP Season 86 Women’s Volleyball Tournament at the SMART Araneta Coliseum on Saturday.
Casiey Dongallo was once again front and center in the victory with 28 points on 25 attacks, two blocks, and a service ace for the Lady Warriors.
“The girls have been working nonstop, we’ve been working at it reviewing the team videos, strategizing, matching up, looking at possible lineups and pushing the girls really hard,” said UE interim coach Obet Vital.
This also marked the first time the Lady Warriors won over the Lady Falcons in almost five years, or since they emerged triumphant on April 13, 2019 back in Season 81, 25-14, 25-19, 25-22.
UE’s playoff chances improved as it rose to 2-6, tied with Adamson and Ateneo de Manila University for fifth to seventh spots. They are behind by 2.5 games to fourth-running Far Eastern University, which is playing De La Salle University as of publishing time.
Dongallo dominated in the end game of the fourth set, breaking a 19-all tie five straight points to make it 24-20 before an AA Adolfo error capped the game in two hours and 17 minutes.
“Sobrang saya po kasi before the game started pa lang po, sinasabi na namin ni Doc na we just have to play kung ano man yung laro namin, we have to give our all,” said Dongallo.
Riza Nogales provided the much-needed backup to Dongallo with 17 points including six blocks and two aces, while Kayce Balingit chipped in 10 points.
UE will next battle National University on April 3 when action resumes after the Holy Week break.
Ishie Lalongisip carried the fight for the Lady Falcons with 17 points and five digs while Barbie Jamili added 11 points on seven spikes, three blocks, and an ace along with 16 digs.
Adamson will also play on April 3 against the league-leading University of Santo Tomas.
