University of the Philippines snapped a four-game slump with a 25-21, 25-15, 25-14 straight-sets demolition of a hapless University of the East in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s Volleyball Tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Sunday.
It was the Fighting Maroons’ first win since losing Casiey Dongallo to a season-ending ACL injury, which had stalled their Final Four bid.
After a promising 3-1 start — including a stunning victory over defending champion National University — UP had dropped four consecutive matches.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
“We had some problems with Casiey Dongallo’s injury. It took us a couple of games before we could find the balance. It’s not been easy to reorganize; slowly, we’re getting there,” said Fighting Maroons head coach Fabio Menta.
With the win, UP improved its record to 4-6, remaining in sixth place but just one-and-a-half games behind third- and fourth-ranked University of Santo Tomas and Far Eastern University at 5-3.
Unlike in their first meeting — where the Fighting Maroons relaxed in the third set, and the Lady Warriors capitalized to avoid a sweep (25-12, 25-9, 21-25, 25-19) — UP stuck to their system until the final point this time.
Kianne Olango and Jelai Gajero, both opposite spikers deployed as outside hitters, combined efforts in the third set to secure the win in one hour and 22 minutes.
“I think more on passing and confidence ang kailangan namin kasi yung mindset lang po namin every game is to embrace the role na ibinigay sa amin,” said Olango, who contributed 18 points on 14 attacks, three blocks, and an ace, along with seven receptions.
Gajero followed closely with 11 points, 12 excellent digs, and 8-of-9 excellent receptions, while Niña Ytang added 14 points on 10 spikes and four blocks.
Jaz Manguilimotan orchestrated the Fighting Maroons with 20 excellent sets. Then Yesha Capistrano impressed with 17-of-26 excellent digs and 13-of-17 excellent receptions.
UP now aims for a second straight win next Sunday when they face unbeaten De La Salle University at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion. The Lady Spikers had overwhelmed the Fighting Maroons in the first round.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
Meanwhile, the Lady Warriors remain winless through nine games. Their pursuit of an elusive first victory continues on Saturday against Adamson University, also at the UST arena.
Khy Cepada did it all for UE, posting 12 points on 10 spikes and two aces, alongside 17 excellent receptions and 10 digs. Van Bangayan added six points, seven digs, and five receptions, while Eljane Nogueras contributed five points.
