University of Santo Tomas made quick work of University of the Philippines Integrated School, 25-18, 25-21, 25-11, while Nazareth School of National University swept Adamson University, 25-23, 25-18, 25-21, as the two powerhouses remained perfect in the UAAP Season 82 Girls’ Volleyball Tournament at the Blue Eagle Gym Sunday.
The Junior Tigresses remained on top with a 3-0 card, while the Bullpups are not far behind with a 2-0 record.
In the other match, Far Eastern University-Diliman conquered University of the East, 25-22, 25-20, 25-18.
The Baby Tamaraws moved in a tie with the Baby Falcons at 2-1.
Renee Peñafiel and Regina Jurado tallied 10 points apiece for UST, which dominated the spiking department against its Diliman-based foes 32-10.
The Junior Tigresses had the luxury to dug deep on their bench in the victory.
“Malaking bagay yung nabibigyan ng playing time yung ibang players kasi it’s a way to build their confidence, kasi may mga rotation din kasi kaming gustong tignan,” said UST assistant coach Yani Fernandez.
The Junior Tigresses, however, will miss setter Tanya Narciso for four to five weeks due to a dislocated pinky finger acquired during training.
Evangeline Alinsug led all scorers with 15 points while former MVP Mhicaela Belen chipped in 13 markers, 13 receptions, and seven digs for NU.
“Despite the win, yung unforced errors kailangan naming bawasan and improve more on how they understand the system that I wanted to do kasi minsan nawawala sa system pag nag-e-error sila,” said coach Regina Diego, who is on her first season with the Bullpups.
Kate Santiago delivered eight points for Adamson University.
Alexis Miner spearheaded the Baby Tamaraws’ onslaught with 12 points built on five spikes, four blocks, and three service aces.
The Junior Warriors, meanwhile, slipped to 1-2, while the Junior Maroons remained winless in four matches.
Girls’ volleyball action resumes with three matches slated on Wednesday at the Paco Arena.
Story by Justin Valencia
Photos by Derick Cajucom