NU women cruise past Adamson, men’s squad pulls off huge comeback

National University continued its strong run in the UAAP Season 87 volleyball tournament, securing victories in both the men’s and women’s divisions against Adamson University on Wednesday, March 12, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The NU Lady Bulldogs maintained their unbeaten record, cruising past the Lady Falcons in straight sets, 25-21, 25-23, 25-18. Now at 6-0, they are just one win away from sweeping the first round, with a finals rematch against University of Santo Tomas set for Sunday, March 16, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.  

Alyssa Solomon led the charge with 22 points, while Vange Alinsug and Bella Belen added valuable contributions. Alinsug registered 12 markers, four receptions, and two digs, while Belen tallied nine points, 12 digs, and five receptions.

Despite Adamson taking a 20-16 lead in the second set, NU’s composure prevailed, with Solomon and Alinsug sparking a late comeback. The Lady Bulldogs then dominated the third set, closing the match with a 7-1 finishing run led by two-time MVP Belen, Solomon, and Alinsug.

Meanwhile, the NU men’s team showed resilience, rallying from two sets down to edge Adamson in a thrilling five-setter, 20-25, 17-25, 25-18, 25-19, 15-12, improving to 5-1 and securing solo second place in the standings.

Rookie setter Jeffe Gallego, who entered in the second set, played a crucial role in NU’s comeback, delivering a breakout performance with 22 excellent sets and four blocks. 

With the fifth set tied at 10-all, he set up key plays, including a quick attack by Choi Diao and a block from Buds Buddin, before an Adamson error sealed the win.

Buddin led the Bulldogs with 22 points, while Jade Disquitado added 15 off the bench. Leo Aringo and Peng Taguibolos each scored 13, and libero Jimwell Gapultos 20 excellent receptions.

On the other hand, Adamson struggled to find momentum, with the Lady Falcons dropping to 2-4 after their third straight loss, while the Soaring Falcons slipped to 1-5 in the men’s division.

Despite a career-best 26 points from Jude Aguilar in the men’s game and a 13-point effort from Nitura in the women’s match, Adamson fell short in key moments.  

With these wins, NU’s volleyball teams continue to establish themselves as title contenders. Meanwhile, Adamson’s squads, both on losing streaks, will try to regroup as they prepare for their upcoming matches.