The University of the East Lady Warriors continued their sudden turn of fortune, shocking the University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses, 25-23,18-25, 28-26, 26-24, for their second win in a row at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
The Lady Warriors last won two in a row in Season 74, scoring back-to-back wins against the UP Lady Maroons. This was also UE’s first win over UST in the Final Four era.
Before Rod Roque took over as head coach, UE had won just two games from Season 77 to midway through Season 80.
UE had to come back in each set they won, erasing a 23-21 lead in the first set, a 24-20 deficit in the third set, and a 24-22 advantage in the fourth frame. In each instance, UE turned to their blocking to shackle the Tigresses and coax attack errors.
“Siguro inunderstimate din kami ng UST. Sa amin, we just work hard and do our best. Tiyaga lang at perseverance,” said Roque, who also serves as UE’s UAAP Board member.
Me-Ann Mendrez topped the Lady Warriors with 21 points, while Shaya Adorador added 15. UE defensive ace Kath Arado had another marvelous outing with 28 digs and 32 excellent receptions.
Cherry Rondina topped the Tigresses with 25 points. Dimdim Pacres managed a season-high 18 markers.
Both squads play again on Wednesday at the FilOil Flying V Centre. UE (2-6) face the National University Lady Bulldogs (6-1), while UST (2-6) take on the De La Salle University Lady Spikers (5-2).
The Scores
UE (3) – Mendrez 21, Adorador 15, Abil 10, Rodriguez 10, Baliton 8, Bendong 1, Catindig 1, Arado (L)
UST (1) – Rondina 25, Pacres 18, Francisco 10, Bangad 6, Viray 6, Sandoval 4, Bicar 3, Dizon 0, Pollentes 0, Teope 0, Rivera (L)
