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DLSU bounces back with four-set win over UP in women's volleyball
De La Salle University (DLSU) got back on track with a four-set victory over the University of the Philippines (UP), winning 25-22, 24-26, 25-18, 25-17 in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament on Sunday, March 2, at the Mall of Asia Arena.
“There’s no weak team in the UAAP today. Every game you play is a challenge,” said La Salle assistant coach Noel Orcullo in Filipino. “Every team plays a high level so you cannot say that the opponent is weak, that's why you need to overcome whatever it is that your opponent is going to throw at you.”
Angel Canino led the way for the Lady Spikers with 24 points, scoring 20 off attacks and adding four blocks.
Shevana Laput provided strong support with 21 points from 15 kills, three blocks, and three aces. Lilay del Castillo also contributed with 11 points, including four blocks and two aces.
PHOTO COURTESY: UAAP MEDIA
“Even though we came from a loss and our standing was uncertain, our mindset remained focused on taking it one game at a time. Every match requires a different kind of preparation, but we’re building confidence as a team and individually, which we hope to carry forward,” Canino said.
Laput echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of trust in their system. “We’re very happy with this win because again we’re coming from a loss but I believe our team is going in the right direction and we all just need to keep contributing, keep sticking to our system and doing our best because the fruits will come.”
Defensively, Lyka de Leon stood out with 18 excellent digs and 14 receptions, while Julyana Tolentino set up her teammates with 10 excellent sets.
After a heartbreaking five-set loss to University of Santos Tomas (UST), the Lady Spikers bounced back to even their record at 2-2. Though UP put up a strong fight and forced a fourth set, La Salle remained determined to close the match.
The Lady Spikers created separation in the final set with a 4-0 run. A service error from Irah Jaboneta sparked another scoring surge, capped off by a crucial block from Amie Provido on Joan Monares for a 24-16 lead.
Monares managed to score off the block for UP’s last point, but Laput sealed the victory with a powerful back-row kill.
Jaboneta led the Fighting Maroons with 15 points and 11 receptions, while Monares added 11 points, with 10 coming from attacks. UP also dropped to 2-2 after back-to-back losses.
La Salle will look to build momentum when they face the winless University of the East on March 8, while UP hopes to end its skid against the surging UST squad on Wednesday, March 5, at the same venue.
